Dal PhDer

Students might be rushing in because they want to get on a professors project and/or funding. I wouldn't say rush into anything, but I would use the next few months to get to know your potential advisors/professors. Research their interests, previous work, current and future projects, talk to their graduate students about their relationships with the advisor/funding & publication opportunities/timelines and length in the programs...and maybe sit down with a few potentials to talk about your dissertation work and what they think. A lot of students might hook up with a professor early so that they can get a head start on their dissertation work/reading. For me, I was happy to go into my program with my topic already laid out. This allowed me to tailor all my class assignments towards my topic, so I could do a lit review for a class paper that would end up being a portion of my proposal.

Hi there! Sorry you are feeling this way. To be honest, I think you might be reading into things here....I don't know many professors that would go out of their way to avoid a student just because they don't like them. I guess depending on their personality and professional attitude that might be different, but generally I wouldn't say (this is going to hurt) you're on their radar enough for them to dislike you and want to hurt you. I think as graduate students we sometimes over inflate actions. I do it all the time. I will think that because my advisor hasn't emailed me back he must be avoiding me- but 99.9% of the time that's not the case- he just doesn't think about me, or I don't register enough on his 'importance' scale for him to respond. You have to remember that they have a lot on their plate- additional department relations, research, teaching, grants, papers, other students, etc. Sometimes I have to stop myself when I start to think about worry about it, and say "DO you really think when their at home at night they are worrying or thinking about me? ... Probably not" even though I am at home at night worrying about our interaction/conversation, it's nothing to him! I guess without knowing if there was a particular incident that makes you think they don't like you, I am going to have to suggest that you just don't read into things. Perhaps a bit more context would help. EDIT: I would also say, that not matter what you do, do not approach them and ask them if they have a problem with you. If anything, just try and to show that you are a smart, reliable, respectful, and motivated student.

To be honest, I think PhD students in the social sciences have a far easier time than other fields. I know that the job market is shifting considerably, and positions that use to be unattainable for PhDs (of the idea that you have 'too much education') are now being specifically tailored for PhDs- especially in policy, government and NGOs. I see a major culture shift happening...do you remember back when a BA/BSc/etc was your ticket to a great job? You would go into a 4 year program and have a great career (I am talking a couple generations ago). Now an undergraduate in a lot of fields won't take you far, you need to go onto graduate work. I think there's a huge shift now that more people are carrying onto their PhDs - this is my opinion and experience, I actually don't know the facts, I could be completely off. I think there's a plus and a negative to this. Jobs that PhDs probably wouldn't have considered before such as research positions at private or public institutions - which traditionally require undergraduates and/or masters degrees - are now focusing on attracting PhDs. I think when people say the job market is poor for PhDs, they have in mind that PhDs will only be trying for the TT positions. (I do agree that there is probably less of those available now than before, but I also think that in a couple years as the baby boomers retire, you'll see more positions available in these areas)...But there are also a lot of jobs outside of a University/College for PhDs, that's why students should not only focus on their own research and becoming experts in it, but also focus on gaining additional research exposure and skills- as it will make you marketable to additional opportunities.

I am sorry I can't add more to the discuss as I don't know a lot about this topic, but I do agree with this model. Personally, I can't understand why there should be printing cost associated with journals any more. Money, environment, waste- this could all be reduced by going completely electronic. The cost would then be a website to host it and personal (which would be far less than the current paper and electronic hosting). I do agree with the above statement that the majority of research is funded by tax payers in either direct or indirect ways, and therefore should be accessible to everyone. The essence of research is to explore, generate new knowledge, and on some level- better individuals, the society, etc. I think denying that knowledge to the public (in the form of a fee for access) kind of goes against a lot of the fundamentals of research (mind you, I am coming from a social science/health background...the perspective from other disciplines may be different). I guess in the end, without knowing the cogs and wheels of how publication works- I believe that all (or most) publications should be open access- and I think most of the people who do the research don't do it to make money, but to add to the intellectual development of society.

I often work at home- even though I have space. Like you, I enjoy being able to get up early, and spend the day working in PJs without distractions. As fuzzy said above, I might test the water out first. Your department might just want you to be there...it's silly, but a some professors go on the mantra "if I don't see them working, they are not working". Also, sometimes it's good to be there a lot, because you form social bonds, get noticed more by other faculty, and there's other events you get involved in. I actually found that my first year was the busiest, and I always had a meeting, journal group, study date, etc. happening. So I was there more often than not...infact, my days with classes were my least busy. In general though, I think everyone should work in an environment that is most productive to them. If you can be super productive at home, then there's no reason why you can't work there!

I really am not sure the politics/etiquette around this. I have heard, not experience, this. A student in my program was complaining how she just wanted a syllabus to help her fill in a gap with her comprehensive reading list, so she emailed a professor in a course she felt would do this and they said no, but would gladly talk to her and see if the class was right for her and suggest potential readings. Also, a friend of mine 2 years ago began a teaching position - she had come out of her MSc and had never taught before. She was handed 2-3 courses to teach and asked the previous instructor if she could see her course outlines and the professor said no - I imagine this was more interpersonal and departmental politics...this is a different situation, but I think is a bit telling how some professors view the work they put into their courses. I think if you approach them in a way that says, "I am interested in this topic, and came across your course which sounds very interesting and connects well with my topic. I am wondering if I could perhaps see a course outline to see what you recommend students reading to get a better understanding"...it's totally fine! I am sure more than most would gladly send you this information if you are clear who you are, who you work with, what your project is, and why you want the information. I just wanted to give you a heads up, that some people can be odd about the information they share!

Hi there! That realllly.....reeeeeeally sucks!! However, I can't tell you how many times I show up for a confirmed (twice confirmed) meeting with my supervisor and either wait 3-4 hours past our meeting time to meet, or don't end up meeting. It's not right by any means, but I would say it happens a lot. It's a difficult situation because you are kind of on their schedule and have to go with the flow. I would let it slid this time, but would suggest that for future meetings, you use skype to meet (or phone calls). Because you are at such a distance, it really is hard for you to travel, especially for a 1-2 hour meeting. So, in order to ensure you don't waste your time, skype might be the better choice. Also, not to take the side of the professor- because I think what happened to you is really rude and disrespectful of them - but the summer is often the worst possible time to meet. I find fall and winter, professors are much more reliable with their meetings, as they are on a tight schedule. Another point- I am sure they know you are 12 hours away, correct? And that you were specifically coming in to meet with them? They might need to be reminded that this is a very long trip for you. Hopefully things can work out for you...perhaps you can chalk this one incident up as a mistake and not a routine happening - you never know, perhaps they had a personal/family emergency.

That is awesome!! *is slightly jealous*

There is also A LOT of great resources that you can find via google- that are free! It is especially helpful if you are using syntax- you can just copy, paste, edit and run! It's a breeze!

Hi there- sorry to hear that you're in this situation. My advice is that if you really want to pursue this degree, don't let the rejections stop you. Many fantastic and successful professionals have received rejections! What I might do is call up the departments and ask them how you might be able to improve your standings for next year. This shows them motivation and initiative, and gets you on their radar. Also, this will help you tailor your next applications to exactly what the department needs. Perhaps it's more experience doing research (pick up some RA work), perhaps it's better grades (take a few extra classes to up your GPA), perhaps it was just luck of the draw. Another thing is to get in touch with some potential faculty members that you're interested in working with. Often times if you have the support of a faculty it helps your chances. This will help you get advice on your statement of purpose, your project direction, and potential experience in the department (through RA work) prior to starting! Don't give up!

TakeruK gives great advice. Whenever I am asking for a LOR I tend to give them (a) an idea of the goals/objectives of the LOR (e.g., what does the school/application want out of the LOR), and ( as much information that they might need to make a solid and informed LOR. Occasionally, I will point out a few things under the objectives. So if a LOR requires a summary/opinion of the student's volunteer experience, I might list where I have volunteered, my contributions, etc. In general I will always send my most recent transcripts, an updated CV, an a summary of my research report (normally an abstract and/or a 1 page overview) - however, at your stage, you might not have this. If you don't, I would send in your other application material - eg. statement of purpose. You want to make sure (1) they know what program and school you're applying for, (2) they can accurately comment on your program/research of study and relate your skills and background to it, and (3) give you positive comments with facts to back it up. LOR are stronger if they can say "this student is has an excellent background of research experience, from their work on......blah blah blah"

Best of luck! I am trying for SSHRC this year...it's my last year to apply so here's hoping!

I wouldn't hesitate to ask- I have done that several times for courses I was interested in taking. I think at this level it's good to make sure the course is going to give you exactly what you need out of it. However, sometimes instructors/professors are a bit persnickety about who sees their course syllabus- especially if you are from a different university and/or are not fully interested in taking the course. I have heard that some people get a 'no' from them, as they feel people are fishing for content for their own courses- it's just how some professors will not help a new instructor settle into a course they use to teach. If they do have a problem and say no, I wouldn't take offence or feel you've done something wrong- it's just them being protective of their work.

I agree with the others, we need more information to make a sound opinion. I have heard of students approaching their comp defense and their advisors suggest that they don't go through it- not sure if this would eventually end in a withdraw, I guess it would depend on your comp format. It is not common, but not unheard of, that supervisors will direct their students not to complete a milestone (e.g., defense) because they do not think their student is ready. I think it's rather a nice thing- they don't want you to go out and just be pulled apart when they know you're not ready.

Haha! I know! I always get home and unpack my bags and find stuff I don't remember getting...it's like "I don't need this ceramic country pig S&P shaker!!" It's a dangerous store! And I'm not afraid to admit that I occasionally buy their food there...but I am scared as to why it's a $1...I have a feeling it fell off a truck and got damaged, or is a couple months past good! I haven't died yet though!

I don't know if this is the same as "The Dollar Store" which we have here- where everything is either $1 or $2...but this is great advice!!! I realized this year how much stuff you can get at these places which cut down on the price! Tooth paste, cleaning supplies, paper towel! It's amazing!!!

Really!?! That sounds horribly frightening!!! I would hate to have that pressure for the first day! I remember my first day- it was like 200% humidity and blazing hot. I was sweaty and had frizzy hair! I would have cried if my photo was taken!!

In regard to statistics software...I think R will soon be the go to software ...it's free and you might want to try getting that and using it as your statistics software. A classmate recently took a stats class and that's the program they used. I imagine it'll be what a lot of departments shift to! Also, I found that in graduate school textbooks are almost none existent for courses. As someone else said, it's often a course pack that is put together-I always had to buy them or photocopy the articles I couldn't find online. If you're looking to save money, I might ask for the reading list ahead of time, scope out what you can find online for free in terms of chapters and articles, and what you can't find, ask a classmate to borrow theirs and photocopy it!

Take this time to indulge in super girlie tv! Like Pretty Little Liars, Gossip Girl, Vampire Diaries or Real Housewives of New Jersey! Get a couple season, some comfy stretchy pants and enjoy relaxing! Not only will it take your mind off of being alone, you'll get to enjoy your last few weeks recharging for school!

Try abebooks, I find they are A LOT cheaper than Amazon. Also, my university doesn't give out SPSS/SAS/STATA downloads to students, but faculty get them free. You might want to check out if this is the case at your university, and see if your advisor can help you out. I've copied the .exe file to my usb and gotten the access code from him and have it on all my personal computers. I don't have course materials...but I did just recently spend $300 on books related to my topic. Background literature, some application textbooks, and user manuals. I consider it a personal cost as I made sure these were items I would use more than once!

I want to echo Takeruk! I was never asked about it when I applied...however, I think it's dependent on the program. If you are working a lot with the public (e.g., psychology, medicine) you might be required to submit a criminal record check - I know you have to at my university for these programs. I don't know what they would do with a DUI history- I get the feeling it's more to check to see if you may or may not be a danger/liability to working with people.

This is the lasagna I make, and it's sooo quick and easy! It seriously takes NO time at all and is super yummy! It's actually not that expensive, and can provide you with a lot of good left overs! http://allrecipes.com/recipe/artichoke-spinach-lasagna/ Ingredients cooking spray 9 uncooked lasagna noodles 1 onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 (14.5 ounce) can vegetable broth 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (I just use Italian seasoning) 1 (14 ounce) can marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (I cut into quarters and use 2 cans) 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed, drained and squeezed dry 1 (28 ounce) jar tomato pasta sauce (I use hot and spicy!) 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (I normally half this and use old cheddar) 1 (4 ounce) package herb and garlic feta, crumbled (I half this too and then top with black olives) Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. Spray a large skillet with cooking spray and heat on medium-high. Saute onion and garlic for 3 minutes, or until onion is tender-crisp. Stir in broth and rosemary; bring to a boil. Stir in artichoke hearts and spinach; reduce heat, cover and simmer 5 minutes. Stir in pasta sauce. Spread 1/4 of the artichoke mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish; top with 3 cooked noodles. Sprinkle 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese over noodles. Repeat layers 2 more times, ending with artichoke mixture and mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle crumbled feta on top. Bake, covered, for 40 minutes. Uncover, and bake 15 minutes more, or until hot and bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting. Nutritional Information Amount Per Serving Calories: 396 | Total Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 42mg

I normally spend $70 a week on groceries for me. But sometimes if I want something special, I can easily spend more! I have a Costco membership, but what I do is my friends and I go in on it together and split things. Costco does have REALLY good deals! A box of Spiniach is $2.39!!!! Produce and meat are also great buys! I like to buy their roasted chicken for snacking and sammies...then I will free the bones and make soup. I find I spend the most money on food when I don't take time to prepare for lunches and dinners. Buying lunch is so costly, so I always make sure I take my own. I normally try and make a pot of turkey chili, squash soup, veggie lasagna, etc. I make it on a Sunday evening, and normally can have my lunches out of it for a week (freeze some too!). I also like going to a speciality store we have here, and getting a giant personalized salad. I leave it in the fridge and will throw on some protein and gains for a quick meal. Smoothies are another great brekkie meal that are cheap and easy. Frozen fruit at Costco is a great buy!! And it lasts forever! Bananas at Costco are also an amazing deal!! I got 8 bananas yesterday for $1.69!!!! Also, you should check out if any of your stores have a student discount day. Tuesdays here is 10% off for students, so you can really save! EDIT: This is also another good food thread!!

I am with GreenePony, perhaps switching once you get there is the best option! Although, I tend to pack like I wil never return home and end up cursing myself half way there! So you might not like the extra stuff! What about the Toms'esque shoes? They look comfy and practical! And everyone seems to be wearing them now ... they are kind of cute!!

ok...I am not sure where to start on this because I have so many points that I want to say/ask you...so maybe I will just put down my thoughts! Firstly, I know how it feels. A couple months back I was in the same 'head space' as you. I didn't want to get up, thinking about my thesis was like sticking a hot poker in my eye, and I felt complete and utter disinterest from my supervisor. * How far have you gotten into your thesis. You said you are entering your third year. Ideally, a masters should be 2 years. If you're going into your third you should be at the point where you're writing and preparing to defend. Knowing how far along you are will help provide advice. *If you are at the writing stage and are finding your supervisor not helpful and destructive with your progress, then perhaps seek out a committee member and/or departmental mentor to help you along. Also, your school's writing center is a great resource. *If you are at the stage where you are beginning data collection or analysis stage- perhaps see if you can bring on a co-supervisor to help you out with this and your progress. *If you are no where near any of those stages I would (a) cut my loses and just say right now in this situation this is not for me {which is completely fine! Grad school isn't for everyone! You wouldn't be any less of a student/person/etc. if you decided it wasn't for you!} or ( cut the supervisor and project completely and find someone to work with. This option might seem overwhelming and depressing, because you'll be starting over- but as someone who is going into their 3rd year of their PhD and starting off on a new project- it's completely worth it! Having a project you're interested in and love is important. *I think you can manage this situation without burning bridges. If you want to leave, bring on a new supervisor, or switch supervisors it can be done in a way that's polite and respectful to your current supervisor and committee. In the end, you are the only on responsible for your career path and the only one that should really be looking out for it. If you have a supervisor that is super supportive and dedicated to enriching your future career, that's awesome (but often not the case). *It seems like you and your supervisor do not have the type of relationship you would like. Some students like a hands on supervisor and some don't. Myself, I like a supervisor that is hands on and provide concrete direction...so I understand how you feel as your supervisor experience is much like mine. I have found that my supervisor changes direction and topic for me a lot...so much so that sometimes I feel that I am running around in a circle chasing my own tail. The only advice I can give you is (1) always take notes and present them to your advisor when they give you mixed advice, (2) hold a committee meeting to discuss the direction of your project and leave there with a solid plan and direction, or (3) bring on an additional advisor to help focus and direct your project. * I would also recommend talking to your graduate coordinator. Believe it or not, many students feel like this and are not sure what the next best steps are for them. Your grad supervisor can help offer advice and what your best options are. * I would also go talk to your career center and think about what type of career paths excite you. They can help you with what sort of path you should be taking for the career you want and/or present you with job opportunities for your current degrees! They are really helpful! *I am a strong believer that you have to do what makes YOU happy. You should talk to your grad coordinator and maybe take a week or two off completely from school to think about how you feel and what you want to do. There are many options available. Perhaps this particular degree, department and/or school is not for you! Good luck!