Overview of Tricky on PostgraduateForum.com

I was in a similar position to what you are. I finished uni, got a job for a few years then decided I wanted to do a PhD. The simplest answer to your question is simply look for projects you like and start applying for them, contact supervisors for more information on the project and explain your situation/background and see what they say. Some supervisors prefer to take PhD students who have been out working over fresh graduates. Don't see the fact you have been out of the academic bubble for 2 years as being a bad thing, you will have developed alot of skills that you can carry over to a PhD project; time management, working to deadlines and the like. It is also a good sign of commitment leaving the working world to come back into academia (usually with a decrease in salary!).

As for narrowing down the research topic, well you are on your own with that one. It is a personal choice and there are lots of things that can influence your choice of topic: University reputation, city, supervisor etc etc. My advice here would be to look for a topic which you really enjoy and focus on that in the first instance. The PhD process has alot of ups and downs and I know I would have struggled at times if I didn't really enjoy my subject. It can be a long and frustrating period looking for studentships so it is probably a good idea to start ASAP!

Five letter word--change a letter

Tricky 3395 posts
16 years ago

TROAT

Four letter word--change a letter

Tricky 3395 posts
16 years ago

BRAT

Five letter word--change a letter

Tricky 3395 posts
16 years ago

GROUT

Four letter word--change a letter

Tricky 3395 posts
16 years ago

COOT

The Word Association Game Thread

Tricky 3395 posts
16 years ago

Shall we start a new word?

how about BREAD

You know you have lost the plot when....

Tricky 3395 posts
16 years ago

I have had a similar experience, I've been stood waiting for the kettle to boil, wondering why it was taking so long.. only then to realise i hadn't switched on..