If I had to choose one word to describe my first semester of my PhD, it would be challenging. There were definitely times where I struggled and doubted myself, but overall I still believe that I am here for a reason, and that it will all be worth it in the end.
In this post, I’ll share my reflections on my first semester of my chemistry PhD, including how I found the right research group for me, maintained my physical and mental health during the semester, incorporated hobbies back into my life, and dealt with homesickness and doubt.
To reflect on my first semester, I’ll be using this structure (https://www.instagram.com/p/CYJiZuNubQ0/ by Dr. Toyin Alli of The Academic Society), which includes my big wins and challenges/lessons learned this semester.
Big Win #1 – I joined the right research group for me.
My biggest win of the semester was joining the right research group for me, which was the Boydston group at UW-Madison. The Boydston group focuses on polymer chemistry, functional materials, and additive manufacturing (3D printing). I chose this group because of their research focus, compatibility with the professor, and overall group dynamic.
How did I find the right research group? I focused on doing these 5 things:
- Explore other areas of research.
- Actively engage in the rotation process.
- Visualize day-to-day life and potential struggles.
- Reflect on personal and professional goals.
- Trust the process.
You can read more here about how I found the right research group for me.
Big Win #2 – I maintained healthy habits during the semester.
First, what do I consider as healthy habits? These are my non-negotiable healthy habits that I prioritize every day or week:
- Sleeping before midnight (usually 11pm, if possible)
- Eating all my meals at a regular time, usually homecooked (7:30am, 1pm, and 7pm-ish)
- Completing my max 16oz coffee intake by 12pm
- Attempting 8000 steps (totally random number preprogrammed on my generic fitbit)
- Attending weekly coaching sessions with my life coach
As a result, these habits helped me show up as my best self, where I am focused and energized to study or work for the day.
First, I want to note that I chose these habits after some time of trial and error. I didn’t choose these habits randomly. I realized that it’s really important for me to sleep and eat regularly, which is why I try to keep my schedule like that. I also noticed how my body responded to caffeine, and if I wanted to sleep well, I needed to finish coffee before 12pm. I’m also generally a sedentary person, so setting a goal for 8000 steps helps me get as much movement as possible, and it’s totally OK if I don’t reach it. Lastly, dedicating time and space to process my emotions has been tremendously impactful. My life coach has helped me manage my emotions, thoughts, and homesickness, which I will share more later.
PhD Tip: Consider what habits work best for you and your energy and try them out. Connect the habit to a reason that makes sense to you. It’s OK if you need to change or experiment with habits if you find something isn’t working. Once you find something that works, keep at it and improve.
Big Win #3 – I incorporated my hobbies back into my life, including orchestra and my business.
In my previous post, I wrote more about how I incorporated orchestra back into my life. In addition to joining orchestra, rebooting my business crept back into my mind.
At the start of the semester, I decided to pause my business by not taking on more clients and completing whatever clients I had remaining.
When I could or felt energetically compelled to, I showed up on social media when I can through writing blog posts, Twitter, or IG stories. I didn’t actively market my services because I did not want to take on clients during the semester.
During the winter break, I thought about the differents directions I want to take with my business. Moving forward, I want to shift my focus from web design to website strategy and helping academics leverage their websites and online presence to get paid opportunities using their expertise, experience, and knowledge. I’ll share more info later, but for now you can learn more about it here.
Big Challenge – I felt homesick often and wondered if I made the right decision to do a PhD.
I’ve been away from home since Aug 2021 for my PhD, and it has been emotionally difficult for me. During the semester I had many low periods where I wondered if I made the right choice, doing a PhD so far away.
I missed my family and boyfriend so much. I missed Houston – the food, the weather, and even the things I never thought I would miss, like parking lots. I didn’t appreciate what I had until I moved far away.
I tried to resist the homesickness and thought it as a problem. But maybe it’s not a problem, it’s just a part of this process. Thankfully, I know they are never too far away. Calling home every day and cooking Vietnamese food helps me feel more at home.
As of right now, I still believe where I am now is exactly where I am supposed to be. I believe that this PhD and the entire process is worth it. I also accept that this undercurrent of homesickness is something I will always carry with me until I return home.
The PhD is hard enough without fighting the burdens that we carry. The best we can do is choose thoughts that help us to make it through.
Up Next
The semester will be starting soon, with safety training, TA training, and more! I’ll be preparing for the new semester by thinking about my PhD identity and goals, which I will share in the next post.
I hope that you enjoyed reading about my personal experience and takeaways from my chemistry PhD journey. If you’d like to chat more about what I’ve shared, feel free to send me an email at hello@brittanytrinh.com or send me a message on Twitter and Instagram @brttnytrnh.