Hi all!

I was wondering what people think are good traits in a successful PhD student?

I'm a masters student in the biological sciences, currently thinking about starting the process of applying for PhDs... but I've had a recent crisis of confidence that makes me wonder if I'd actually be any good as a PhD student.

The crisis came about after I was offered the opportunity to attend a conference to present some previous research - I couldn't go as it clashes with my masters course but rather than being disappointed, I have to admit I was relieved, as the thought of presenting my research to an entire room of academics quite frankly terrifies me! This has me worried though - that my lack of confidence could really hinder me as a PhD student. I love research... but I really do worry that my low self-confidence could create real problems and could be interpreted as a lack of drive and motivation.

So... do people think this is likely to be an issue for me? Do I just not have what it takes to cut it as a PhD student?!

I'd say that this isn't really a problem. After all, isn't development of confidence to present research to acadmeics one of the objectives of a PhD?

Elle - I wouldn't worry that you haven't got what it takes because you were nervous about public speaking. I would actually take confidence that your uni were happy for you to go along & represent them - it shows they have faith in your ability even if you don't!
As a PhD student you would probably begin by presenting your work 'in house' as it were infront of a supportive audience of your peers and supervisors before you progress to bigger events, you can also join Postgrad networks in your area where you can present amongst people at the same level. Once you've done it 2 or 3 times I promise the nerves will dimish.
You say you enjoy the research & to my mind thats the most important thing for a PhDer.
Go for it!

Elle.. what pea has written is true... remember it is not a question of whether you can or cannot but whether you want to do it or not. Rest follows with time.

I still face problems with public speaking but have improved a lot since I started. So take it easy on yourself. :)

-Rise
(http://www.educatedbeing.com)

I have my first 'biggish' presentation a week tomorrow at an international conference... also feel a tad scared but just keep making myself bite the bullet... only way to learn, I think.

Thanks for all the responses guys - they've definitely made me feel better about it all

I think I've just been feeling a bit low lately due to problems with my masters research, which has also been making me doubt my abilities somewhat - and with the conference thing on top I've just been having a 'bit of a wobble' (as my mum would put it!!)

Thnaks again!