Since it’s my PhD Graduation today, I have decided to share some interesting moments from my PhD journey.
I wanted to quit after my first year and settle for a Masters in Research.
I gave birth to my daughter two days after one of my first year lectures. Less than two weeks after giving birth to her, I submitted my last coursework for the semester.
I was given an option to defer my PhD because of childbirth. My eyes were on the goal till the last moment. Defer was not a word in my dictionary.
Two weeks after childbirth, I went to the University to present one of my courseworks. I was dizzy before I left home that day.
I struggled to navigate my PhD during Covid. It was tough combining Academic work with a whole pandemic.
My PhD did not stop me from attending parties and going out. It was a way of forgetting my worries and enjoying the moment.
My supervisors believed in me. They were there for me from start to finish. In my first year of research work, they were meeting with me weekly until they were comfortable with my work.
I once cried during one of my review meetings with my supervisors. They made a major change to my work and I didn’t know where to go from there. I burst into tears during the video call. They were supportive ❤️
I used my two hour rule to finish my PhD in record time. I was consistent by dedicating a minimum of two hours to my research work daily.
I cried bitterly two weeks to my final submission. I was on a review call with my supervisor and I was crying while she was correcting my work. I was ready to quit again when I saw the major changes in my work 🤣🤣
My husband listened to my rants for 4 years. He is not a tech bro, but was always ready to listen to every rant. A top guy.
Paper rejections humbled me. On some days, I cried and felt really bad. On some other days, I moved on quickly as if nothing happened.
I struggled with writers block. On some days, I would just go blank and will have nothing to write, after a thorough research work. I learnt to drink water, relax and drop my work when nothing is flowing.
I made good friends along the way. They supported me till the very end. I had friends who were constantly checking in, reviewing my work and sending words of encouragement.
My daughter ruined one of my video presentations. She cried until I was forced to turn off my camera and end the call.
If you are currently on your PhD journey, my story is an encouragement that you should not give up. It’s tough and challenging, but it’s worth it at the end.
Happy Graduation Dr Iretioluwa Akerele ✨