Potentially stupid question, but I wondered if anyone could give me an idea of what to expect during my first week or two of a PhD? Im due to start in october and the uni has an "induction programme", but just wondered if anyone knew what this is likely to involve?!

Good question. I am in the same boat. I am a little bit frightened about the induction informal lunch as I feel I might be quized on what i propose to do (because essentially I am still nonw the wiser!!!)
Hope you get some nice replies.
Barry

Induction is likely to be basically orientation. Tours of school/campus, talks about training you might need or have to do, how progress is monitored, upgrades, hopefully introductions to other facilities and support services such as library, SU etc. Make the most of lunches, it's most likely the only time you'll get anything free. It's also a chance to meet other PhD students. You're likely to spend a stupid amount of time standing in queues. I didnt see my supervisor till week 2, didnt do anything research-wise till week 3, which I found quite frustrating.

I am in the same situ. I am going for PhD at Southampton this october where are you going Barry & new girl???

I am starting at Leeds.

Have you guys who are starting this year actually got a start date yet? All I know is October.....

2nd October 2005

Yeah i was told to start pretty much when I could but nearer october the better

Eeks, guess I'd better give them a call!

I've got registration week from 19th September at Manchester

good luck to everyone starting they're phds. I think a good idea would be to take before and after pics!

Cool wish I had one when I started! I started in August - slap bang in the middle of the summer and it was so boring and the place was dead (and still is!) Hardly anyone is around especially no one to go to lunch with! Just can't wait until the start of term when there will be new students around!!

I've heard from other people that induction weeks are good as everyone gets to know each other which is a great ice - breaker! Just hope there is one when people start in Oct but I doubt it!