Hi, everyone! I'm an international student. I need help about PhD studies.
I began my PhD study a month ago at U.K. At the beginning, my supervisor asked me to do literature review and case studies. Then he went to another country for a meeting. I misunderstood his meaning, and read only few papers. In the rest of that month, I learned a open course which is also related to this research project.
Two days ago, he returned and feel unsatisfied with my progress. He told me that he already regrets for accepting me as his student. He also said that he didn't know how to supervise me.
I feel extremely sorry to let him down. This is my fault. I feel huge pressure now. What can I do? Will I be kicked out of the University at the end of this year?

Thank you very much!

Hi wsspzwps,

Firstly congratulations on getting your PhD place! I wouldn't worry about being kicked out of the university, you're only a month in and there is plenty of time to make up for the last month of little progress, these things happen. My advice would be to get started with the literature review and case studies that your supervisor asked for and if you have regular meetings maybe give him updates on how it's going. That way he'll see that you're serious about working and it will show that you don't want to let him down.

I do think it was unfair of him to say he regrets taking you on as a student though. Did he actually say that in those words or did he imply it? My supervisor has been known to make weird and sarcastic remarks when I've had periods of little progress, but then when things turn around he's a bit more complimentary. Hopefully this is just his way of giving you a kick up the bum (at least I hope that's why my supervisor makes his strange comments!) and hopefully when you're back on track with the literature review his attitude will improve.

Hope you feel a bit more reassured! And hopefully things will get better with your supervisor! :)

Hi,

As this is your first month, I wouldn't worry about it. You're supposed to be learning, and if this was a misunderstanding, you've learned a little about how to communicate with your boss! :P

I'd say just get on with the work now and get back to your boss as soon as possible. I'm sure ups and downs of productivity are normal (or so I am told!)

As for what he said, is this a direct quote or is it possible you might have misunderstood him back?! :D Either way, don't take it personally. Perhaps it means your boss is thinking about how to help you! Just stay positive, get the work done and see what your boss says next time!

Good luck. I just passed my 1 year mark and I know how stressful 1st year can be!

CC

Hi, thank both of you for being so nice! I really appreciate! I feel better now.
About what he said, it's a direct quote, that's why I'm so frustrating. I don't want him to give me up.

Anxious_PhDgirl:
It's really nice of you!
I'm doing literature review and case studies now. I hope both of our supervisors can appreciate us. Thanks again! ^_^

Constantly_Confused:
Thank you so much!
I'm really stressful at the beginning of PhD studies. Now I feel better! Thanks again! ^_^