For over 6 years I have wanted to develop a career in academia, I got a 2:1 in a BSc Psychology and I am now studying for an MSc in Animal Behaviour. I have always struggled with articulation, critical thinking and discussions - I find it incredibly difficult to produce constructive thoughts on research studies and topics and an even harder time trying to explain myself when I do.

This was not a huge problem in my undergrad degree, however since starting my MSc I have seen what a huge part of both the course and progressing as a researcher this is. One of our modules requires us to give intelligent input in a class discussion and to write thought papers on presentations of various studies that have recently been conducted. I read the relevant papers before the class discussion but find it extremely difficult to think of things to say and what I do come up with, my module convenor never seems very impressed. A few days ago we received our marks for two of our thought papers - I failed one (42%) and barely passed the other (52%).

In other aspects I feel that I am adequate and can handle the course and research as a whole - for example I got 65% for a presentation I gave and have an average of 67% for statistics assignments. However I feel that my lack of skills when it comes to critical thinking, constructing arguments and articulating my thoughts is a major problem that is too big to advance in academia.

I will of course finish my MSc, whether I pass or fail but I am seriously considering if I am able to carry on in the research field. Does anyone have any advice they can give me? Please be brutally honest - if this isn't the career for me, tell me.

Thanks,

Chantelle

Hi Chantelle,

This is a very difficult question to answer - especially for someone who isn't familiar with you or your work. I know you say you want to develop a career in academia, but critical thinking of formulation of arguments - which you mention are your weaker ones - are only going to increase in importance as your research becomes more and more independent. Some people do seem to find the jump from undergrad to postgrad to be a big one, because the learning is much less prescriptive. I can only speak from my own experience - I did a taught M Phil before I began my PhD, but I actually preferred the independence of grad school. There were people on my programme who were certainly intelligent and passionate, but they found it more difficult to sustain the grades they achieved as undergrads.

My advice to you would be to maybe speak to a career guidance counsellor, or perhaps a lecturer/research student in your area. Maybe what you're experiencing is actually very common in the early stages of Psychology grad research.

I think the important thing to be aware of (which it sounds like you've been giving thought to) is that research work is very different to taught courses.

I would strongly advise getting some hands on research experience before committing to a PhD (if you do decide to do a PhD). If you can get a research assistant post that would be the best thing, but even a summer project would be good. It will give you a feel for how research differs from taught courses, and whether you feel that you have (or could develop) the necessary skills for working in research. Some people have a more natural ability for research than others, but there are a lot of key skills that can be learned. Being able to identify one's strengths and weaknesses is a skill in itself, and you seem to have a good level of self awareness. Critical thinking skills can be learned, but you might need some guidance. Do you have a tutor you could discuss this with?