The Doctoral College welcomed 35 new postgraduate researchers, ready to take the next step in their academic career. Among the new starters, 21 joined us from overseas demonstrating the breath and diversity of our doctoral community.
On TUesday, students had the opportunity to attend the Doctoral Information Fair, where they could browse exhibits from a wide range of university services and suppliers. 10 West’s Atrium was buzzing with activity as researchers gathered to network and chat with university teams including DoctoralSkills, Student Services, The SU Bath, Postgraduate Association, Kaleidoscope, Team Bath, the Library and Computer Services to name a few. If you weren't able to make the event, you can read a full write up about the fair including photos and a video of our Facebook Live post.
Later in the week, students attended an interdisciplinary doctoral induction event ‘Starting your doctorate: an introduction to doctoral study’. It was a great opportunity to meet fellow researchers as well as find out essential information about life at Bath and getting started on their studies. Key members of staff delivered presentations including supervision, professional development and representation. Among them, doctoral supervisors Chris Bowen (Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering) and Ed Keogh (Professor, Department of Psychology) offered students advice about how to get the best out of doctoral supervision. Ed Keogh Said:
It's your PhD. Own it. It's yours. You'll know more about your subject than us by the end of it. Get support early if you need it. Yes, a PhD can be lonely at times, but there are always people to help you: here in the room today, supervisors, directors of studies, the Doctoral College. Keep communicating. Talk to people, you're not on your own.
After the session, students were invited to join a campus tour led by the Doctoral College Welcome Team.
Inductions events will wrap up in traditional Doctoral College fashion with tea and cake. Our regular Cake in the Commons event will be holding a new starters special on Friday 8 January offering students a chance to catch up with the connections they made throughout induction. Our Doctoral Welcome Team, made up of current students, will be on hand to share their experiences and answer questions about the doctoral journey. Cake in the Commons runs every Friday from 10:30 and is located in 10 West, Room 5.01.