Between classes and possibly even working a job, it might seem like there is never enough time in the day. What could I possibly get done with the little time I have to spare? Well—and you might want to brace yourself—there is actually a lot you need to be doing outside the classroom. While it might seem like the grand title of “Doctorate” holds enough weight on its own upon graduation day, this is unfortunately just not the case. However, don’t let my pessimistic (attempting to be realistic) tone of this introduction discourage you. If you are in your PhD program for the right reasons, all of these “extra” things should be fun for you! Academia is far greater than a checklist of classes. It is a development of personhood, and a challenge for your every day work ethic. Each day in your degree should be one that helps you to better understand yourself, your values, and what you wish to do for and in the world. That being said, here are some things you should be looking into outside the classroom space.
Conferences
At least in the world of social sciences and Education, conferencing is key. While being able to speak at a conference will probably be your best opportunity, it is still great just to go and check things out. See how other speakers perform. What do you like and dislike? How might you do better? If speaking in front of people makes you want to walk off a bridge, don’t worry, there are a few other options. You could reach out to your academic advisor about joining a panel of students on a certain subject. Being on a panel you may need to speak a little, but the time will also be taken up by others in your field and they can always help if a question comes up you’re not familiar with. The key takeaway here is that networking begins, blossoms, and booms at conferences. Gather up some courage and take the leap.
Service
This year in my first-year proseminar we discussed the need for Service, Teaching, and Scholarship. While I felt attached to service from different organizations and family commitments growing up, I had no idea this was such a large portion of what it meant to be a scholar. However, when you think things through, it does make sense. Scholars dedicate themselves to researching different parts of the world and how our lives function under conditions in order to, usually, understand how to continue to become more functional and happy humans—whether that’s mental health, physical health, environmental health, or others. And yet, how would that be possible without going into the world and experiencing things for ourselves? When it comes to service, I think it’s best to explore outside your current research but still a topic you’re interested in. For example, if you study well-being and literature, you might want to jump on a service project invested in well-being in science classrooms. Being well-versed never hurt anyone.
Writing Practice and Time Management
Going for the PhD means at some point you will likely endure the all too gruesome dissertation. While this may seem like “years away” as you begin your program, developing good writing habits now is going to be crucial for succeeding during those pressing months before your due date. Some books I’ve found to have exceptional writing tips and tricks are Peter Elbow’s Writing with Power and Gary Provost’s 100 Ways to Improve Your Writing. Perhaps the biggest take away from any of these writing-help books is JUST WRITE! And do it a lot. While quality might be your end goal, great writing—truly not even good writing—will produce itself unless you are willing to write over and over and over again.
Socializing and Networking
While conferences are certainly a great place to meet people, don’t take for granted your new cohort or advisors! One of the most amazing opportunities granted to PhD students is the ability to have access to hundreds of scholars with a passion for learning. Whether it’s a peer in your first-year cohort or a teacher you admire, be sure to reach out and say something to these people. Like those cheesy movie moments where the beautiful girl on the bus slips away before you can say something, don’t let those moments pass you by! Or, if you do, at least send them an email (faculty members are a little easier to track down than a driveby lover).
Publishing
While it may seem daunting, publishing will become—and truly already is once you’ve started your program—an essential part of your academic success. It can be a little bit of a hidden secret at times. Some students come a little too late to the party, trying to crank out some publications in their last year or so. However, publishing takes time, and the peer-review process is unmercifully long. Be kind to yourself. Invest in understanding publishing now. What is peer-review? How long does it take? Where should I try to submit my work? Etc. Being proactive will help in the long haul.
Conclusion
So this is the start of everything you’re not doing that you should be doing while you’re also doing…your PhD. Perhaps there’s a reason the notorious PhD Comics calls it Piled Higher Deeper? It is a lot, however, a lot of it should be fun too! Socializing with people who will soon become your friends and fellow researchers, presenting at conferences that could help you become published, and becoming a stronger writer should all be aspects of your education you get to enjoy, not that you are burdened to do.
-SS