A week as a PhD student

TL;DR

A PhD student documents their week filled with coding challenges, thesis writing, singing in a choir, and frustrations.

Transcript

so this week I've got a whole bunch of objectives the most important of which is get some computer code running I also need to write at least a couple more pages of my theory chapter of my thesis which I've been sort of slowly writing a over the past couple of weeks and months I have meeting with supervisors later on this week which I want to have ... Read More

Key Insights

• ✍️ The life of a PhD student involves juggling multiple objectives, from coding to thesis writing, meetings, and presentations.
• 🏑 Research in complex fields, such as atmospheric science, comes with uncertainties and challenges, but persistence is key.
• 🧑‍🎓 Extracurricular activities, like singing in a choir, provide a much-needed break and support network for the student.
• 🥡 Engaging in hobbies and taking time off is important for maintaining mental well-being.
• ❓ Collaboration and seeking guidance from supervisors and peers are essential for progress and problem-solving.
• 🧑‍🎓 The student's research is focused on understanding the impact of sudden stratospheric warming events on surface weather.
• 😀 The student faces setbacks and frustrations in their research, but remains optimistic about finding solutions.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main focus of the student's PhD research?

The student's research focuses on sudden stratospheric warming events in the Earth's atmosphere and how they impact surface weather. Their thesis tests a hypothesis regarding the occurrence and effects of these events.

Q: Why does the student feel frustrated about their research?

The student feels frustrated because there is no guarantee that their work is correct, as there are numerous unknowns and uncertainties in their field. They must continuously evaluate and compare their work to existing knowledge, making it difficult to find definite answers.

Q: What is the specific coding challenge the student is facing?

The student is working on a complex code that involves calculating and simulating a three-dimensional atmospheric model. They encounter difficulties with convergence, accuracy, and generating valid temperature fields.

Q: How does the student cope with the challenges and frustrations?

Despite the frustrations, the student persists in trying different approaches, consulting research papers, and seeking advice from others. They also take breaks, engage in music rehearsals, and spend time outdoors for relaxation.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The student is focused on completing computer code for their PhD research, writing thesis chapters, meeting with supervisors, and preparing a talk.

• They also work on a project involving students blogging about their daily lives and perform administrative tasks.

• Singing in a choir, attending rehearsals, and performing gigs are also a part of their week.