Saturday, March 31, 2012

Celebrating Successful Defense...and Getting Yourself There

I haven't posted here for almost a month because I have been extremely busy trying to meet deadlines. Two of my doctoral students needed to complete their dissertations and defend by March 30th, to be able to graduate in May 2012. They both did. Congratulations to Keith Keppley, PhD, and Terrina Henderson-Brooks, PhD! Keith's journey was just under 4 years; Terrina's was just under 5.

So tonight I celebrate Keith and Terrina, who have kept me very busy throughout the month of March. And David Wolf, PhD who preceded them by defending in January. Three doctoral students are now doctors. The journey does come to an end. It may take 4 years, or 5, or 6...but eventually, it does come to an end. Then maybe, you enter into the domain of life-long learner. And 'holder of the discipline'.

So how do you get to this place of celebrating a successful defense?

I have learned a few lessons from directing these three students, and many others who are in the pipeline.

  1. Create a plan, then work that plan. 
  2.  Avoid taking a new job before you complete your dissertation. Many have been derailed by taking new jobs...Off course if you do have to take a job, then go back to 1 - create a plan, then work that plan. Some institutions (for those who look to enter academia) will hire you as ABD. However, it is contingent on you defending your dissertation within a given timeline, failure to do so would result in either being fired or demoted. For those who are already working (thus doing doctoral studies part-time) taking on a new job or added responsibility has the same potential to derail your progress. So if you do take that new job, or those added responsibilities, be sure to count the cost.
  3. If you can, it is advisable that you keep more or less the same pace as you did during coursework. Maintaining the same pace has the potential to help you get to completion sooner. Deciding that coursework is over so now you can relax...that can derail you. 
  4. Talk to those who had a timely completion. Learn from their example. They can tell you which strategies to employ and which pitfalls to avoid.
  5. Ensure you have social support and accountability, people who will encourage you and keep tabs on your progress. Per my "it takes a village" post, you need others in your life to help you achieve timely completion. Folks who are willing to copy edit your documents, folks who are willing to help with child or elder care...etc. 
  6. Finally, create a plan, then work that plan. Yes, I am repeating myself. Its THAT important. 
All the best! And as always, be sure to engage by commenting or asking questions.

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Wordle summary of blog posts: clarity on goals, community, conferences



        
 
      

The wordle provides a summary of my post ideas so far:  
·      Attend conferences, the benefits far outweigh any associated financial and time costs. 
·      Create community with other doctoral students
·      Utilize your existing community as a source of support 
·      Be clear about the goals you have for your dissertation study 
·      Tend to relationships - familial, academic, community/church, research, etc
Today rather than post new ideas, I want to welcome your feedback and questions. 
 What questions would you like me to answer during the month of March? What are some issues you wish to see covered in the blog this month?