I relish learning new skills and have a deep passion for research
Before starting my PhD
Prior to starting my PhD I was working as a volunteer coordinator for a local charity, overseeing and supporting over 160 volunteers across the county. During my studies I have moved on to work as a Project and Research Manager. This role involved undertaking qualitative research into digital access to primary care and the provision of local mental health services. The knowledge and confidence I have gained from my studies gave me the courage to apply for a researcher role within the county council where I now work as part of the Innovation team in the strategy and transformation department.
I have never looked back and am really enjoying my PhD
As a naturally curious and studious person, it has been my goal to complete a PhD for many years. I relish learning new skills, have a deep passion for research and see the completion of a PhD as both personal and professional development. It’s taken a while to get here due to balancing my personal, family and work life but I have never looked back and really enjoy this part of life. When I was considering applying for a PhD course, I used findaphd.com to make sure that I found the right course and supervisors who aligned with my research areas. I found my primary supervisor and arranged an initial in-person meeting to discuss my ideas and had a good feeling about Sheffield University Management School.
My research area
My research interests are within employment and disability related fields, so my thesis is titled Visually Impaired Employees in the Workplace: Understanding Barriers to Promotion Through a Bourdieusian Lens.
Make time for your friends and family
I currently work part-time three days a week and study part-time for two days a week, therefore I rely heavily on planning my days and this includes factoring in family life with my wife and twin sons.
It’s important to make time for your friends and family, engage in your hobbies and take regular breaks from studying. Planning my time enables me to set clear boundaries and ensure that my time as a PhD student is rewarding!
My advice for future PhD students
Your PhD proposal should be indicative and it should outline your areas of interest and your general insight into the research topic. Always remember that you are not expected to be an expert and to be familiar with all the specific details of your subject. Once your draft proposal is complete, I would recommend that you ask a friend or family member to read it over and provide feedback.
Future career plans? To be continued...
After finishing my studies, I plan to continue my passion for research by seeking opportunities that support my research interests within employment and disability related fields. Exactly what that looks like I'm still figuring out in my last year of study... to be continued!