======= Date Modified 14 Jan 2012 19:43:34 =======
In a word: yes - I loved all three levels of education and excelled academically in each. But, like Delta and AGM, I still consider a lot of what I have learnt to be self-taught. I didn't let poor teachers impact my performance and was often unsatified with the superficial covering of material.

I think university can really be the turning point for a lot of students. Many of my friends who were strong in secondary school (and naturally intelligent) just could not adapt well to a more self-taught environment. My experience was the opposite - suddenly I could learn however I saw fit and essays/exams allowed you to showcase narrower and deeper knowledge, rather than broad overviews.

======= Date Modified 13 Jan 2012 08:49:45 =======
Thanks, Waddett. Your points are why I do want to ask her, but I was concerned that it makes me seem like I am too reliant on permission and not just using my own initiative. Also, there has been a long gap since our last meeting and sending emails doesn't seem to be helping!

Thanks, Dalmation, I think I will just ask outright, even though I hate bringing these types of things up! *curses social anxiety*

======= Date Modified 12 Jan 2012 22:37:55 =======
Several reasons. I consider myself fairly hard to impress, but when I started university I was taken with these 'doctors', who imparted their wisdom with a clarity and depth far beyond anything I'd experienced in school. A dream was born!

And, while it might sound like a cliche, ever since I was able to read my whole life has been about trying to absorb information. As I'm sure applies to plenty here, my thirst for knowledge is insatiable, so the idea of basing a career around those aspects that interest me most seems too good to be true. (I realise that with the job market, politics and overwork, that is the case!)

Congratulations! All your hard work has paid off. (up)

======= Date Modified 12 Jan 2012 22:23:01 =======
Hi all,

I know that there is a huge range in candidate-supervisor relationships, but I was just wondering the extent to which people consult theirs before submitting: abstracts for conferences, conference papers, submissions to journals.

I am in my first year, and have seen a few conferences I'm interested in applying to, but don't know whether I should be showing my pieces to my supervisor or just trusting my own judgement. I feel reasonably confident submitting abstracts (with the intention of showing my sup the actual paper should I be accepted and write one), but I don't know if it is considered bad practice not to run even abstracts by them first.

If you're looking for employment, post PhD, I believe it will be more difficult. With so few jobs, the university can make a big difference.

Hi there,

Unfortunately I don't have time now to give a longer response, but there are SO MANY other threads here that will offer you advice. From what you have said, I would encourage you to stick it out for another few months. What about taking a few months out to 'clear your mind' and then going back to it? The fact that you are already talking about trying again in several years suggests that you really should try and battle through now, rather than wait. You have invested too much time and energy to give up now. (up)

My dissertation was 20,000 and I got a similar mark, but never considered trying to publish it in any form. Hm, maybe I will ask my supervisor what they think.

Yes, thank you both, I was angry more than anything else; that we live in a world where people think it acceptable to behave in such a way.

Natassia, not looking much older than the students seems to be a common issue young PhD candidates face. I suppose it's partially because all during their education, children/teenagers have been taught by someone who is much older than them. Then, when they are at their oldest in university, they can someone who is only a few years older! I suppose it is somewhat jarring for them. I remember developing superficial crushes on two TAs during my freshman years; based on their intelligence more than anything else.

I can empathize with your point about make-up as well. I have always been very 'feminine' and, like you, can feel self-conscious about this in the department. Of course there is no reason why you can't be an academic and take pride in your appearance, but some people give the impression that time spent on superficial things gets in the way of time spent on research. There is also the problem of people underestimating you, because you don't *look like* you are intelligent. :-s

======= Date Modified 08 Jan 2012 19:26:54 =======
It's strange, because while I know this happens in general, I would have thought that academia operated on a slightly different system. If anything, I would have thought the bias was to native students rather than attractive ones. That said, the post-grad application in my university require you to submit a passport photograph, which really bothers me since there is no justifiable reason.

Unfortunately 'lookism' is a sad reality of our culture, but it works both ways. Last year, I was physically molested by the boss on my first day of a [professional] job. I had to walk out and was utterly devastated as I was badly in need of the money and was so pleased to have finally found work.

Several years ago I went to see my G.P. about depression, and he somehow thought it appropriate to tell me I had nothing to be depressed about since I was attractive. It was a very uncomfortable exchange and completely undermined my respect for him. I haven't been back since.

I agree with Delta. However unrelated the work you do for him is, it would be difficult for him to be completely impartial. Like you said, he knows a lot of details about your life and difficulties you have had personally.

Also, you said that he knows you're capable of a higher standard of work than your dissertation; if this is truly the case (perhaps you are just underestimating your own thesis!) then it would be biased of him to take your other work into account. After all, it is the thesis alone that is being examined for the doctorate.

Based on your post, I would let your supervisor ask someone else. This way, no-one can speculate about favouritism and you don't need to worry that your relationship with could be adversely effected. I think this is a rare case when the devil you know isn't necessarily better than the devil you don't know. Good luck with your decision. :-)

The thread doesn't apply to me, but just to say that I read all the posts and was very inspired; your dedication and methods for managing both are truly admirable. (up)

Artista, good luck trying to manage your time and don't be too hard on yourself. :-)

I've no miracle solution either, unfortunately. On a scale of 1-5, I'm about 3.5 for the first few days, but after that only about a 1.
I just fill myself with chocolate and painkillers (w/caffeine) and wait for the pain storm to pass.

I think that's a good idea, Dalmation: anything to relieve some of the pressure/anxiety. It's similar to when people don't mention their driving test until they've had it. It's easier not to have to worry about the expectations of others.