wow Congratulations Sheena
and thank you for the good news
love satchi

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Thank you to each and everyone who wished me and to the forum because it has been the 'rock' that has been there since I started my PhD process.

The viva itself was overall a positive experience. I don't usually regret things but my viva prep was not as organised as I hoped. I wanted to  do chapter by chapter summary and 'in doubt' or clarification parts where they could ask questions. for example, methodology and the results of each study I did. All I could do was get organised on five key questions: they were important and useful in answering some of their questions.
1) originality of thesis
2) Lit.review- alternative views/opinions on chosen theory
3) methodology, why you chose it? why didn't you use that stat/questionnaire?
4) Results? outcomes, what could be done if you followed a diff.approach
5) Discussion of contribution to knowledge/implications to research

For all the future viva's:
1) If possible try to sort the examiners 3-6 months before submission so your supervisors will have a chance to look at 'best, experienced examiners. If given chance you might want to drop a name or two. Chair also important.
2) A week before, set a timetable, take time-off and get in the zone, ask someone to be a examiner and try to give answers even if they don't understand the subject. It's about the manner you hold yourself also.
3) Remember not to be 'defensive' but give clarifications to their doubts. You know your thesis better then anyone. They can misinterpret things.you need to 'CLARIFY & JUSTIFY' them.
4) Keep clam, don't rush to answer, try & THINK before answering the question. Silence is not a bad thing as along as it's not total blankness
5) Wear comfortable clothes, shoes, think of how you would sit and your gestures.
6) You would not have time to flick through papers or notes, so I don't think they are needed but maybe post-it-notes with words to set you off or names of important people would be enough.
7) Remember the thesis is a result of your very hard work over the years, so don't give up on anything, just explain, be honest as possible, they would see that you tried your best.

Finally, just admit if there can be things that could have been better or chosen differently. It is a 'process of learning' and if given the chance and resources now you would probably do things better with the experience you gained.

Good luck to all (Esp. jojo who seem to have the viva in Jan)(up)(up)
Enjoy the festive season(tree)(gift)

thanks Sheena. i really appreciate the tips and am very happy for you and proud of you! well done!

Congratulations Sheena.

Many thanks for the advice.  Happy post PhD-ing.

Chuff

Many Cong8tulation Dr Sheena
This is Chandan Kumar Khatri, from Pakistan. I am looking for PHD in finance/ risk management in derivative and future market/ something related to the valuation and research of equity and securities market. I am totally unknown how to apply or start process with. Kindly guide, I shall be more than thankful for this favour

looking forward to your feedback

Regards
Chadnan Kumar Khatri