What made you choose a PhD career?
I chose the PhD career because first, I wanted to be able to influence formulation of policies that affect women and marginalized groups as well as their implementation in my home country.
Second, I knew that the process of getting a doctorate would open doors for networking during conference paper presentations as well as in other settings that would be important for my future career life. In addition, I would gain new knowledge and perspectives on tackling issues holistically.
Third, I have always wanted to challenge the myth of a PhD holder in my community. The myth is that of a grey haired man and an occasional older woman when referring to a doctor. Therefore, this opportunity challenges that myth and hopefully inspires young girls from my community to pursue higher education as well as this kind of professionalism.
How did you get the PhD?
First, I would like to say that my PhD application process wasn’t easy. It started with a couple of fails, but those fails were accompanied with new learnings and sharper analytical skills.
I developed a proposal on sexual violence with the help of my supervisors Assoc. Professor Ruth Jane Prince and Prof. Johanne Sundby and applied for a GLOBVAC grant at the Research Council of Norway. It was a competitive process from which two projects from our institute were selected for funding of which one happened to be mine.
How does your Master thesis writing experience contribute to your current PhD writing process?
Coming in for the Masters programme, I knew little about research. Basic things such as referencing were a challenge to me. But through the rigorous training of the Masters progamme that requires one to find a topic, carry out research and write a thesis, I developed analytical and research skills that are critical for the PhD course.
The Masters programme offers excellent courses on conducting literature review, research design and methodology and writing methods that are requisite for research.
What are the challenges of being a PHD candidate?
- Mandatory courses are offered at the same time with elective courses which at times clash. This makes it difficult to take preferred elective courses.
- The PhD courses are limited and therefore one is forced to look for courses elsewhere.
- No organized PhD forums within the institute. That lack of such forums causes one to feel lonely and misplaced at times.
- No information on where to seek mental health services in case one is stressed.
- Sometimes it is assumed that you know your way around, but that isn’t the case. There needs to be someone to show you around and tell you about the available services.
What are the highlights of being a PHD candidate?
- Opportunities to attend courses offered outside of Norway
- Opportunities to attend local and international Conferences
- Networking
- Sufficient support from supervisors
What are your best career advices for new students?
- For your research, pick a topic that you are passionate about. Research is tough and therefore passion takes you where strength fails.
- Keep your eyes on the goal by working smart, giving your best and God will do the rest.
- Learn to network; interact with people outside your class and department.
Do you have any other tips for current or incoming students? Or other things you want to say to new students?
- Choose supervisors that are as eager as you are about your topic.
- Learning is not only about books, networking is equally important.
- Look at your fellow students as a resource rather than competition.