Hiya Nisot! I definately think you should do the presentation. I was asked to do a 5 minute presentation at my phd interview and I think it played a big part in me getting my phd studentship. However I was given a topic to present on. If you havent been given a topic maybe present on the topic of the phd research or a research area you are interested in? I think all they want to see is whether you are a good communicator, confident and capable of critically analysing information and presenting it. Make sure you keep it is as short and succinct as possible. Hope this helps! Best of luck!

Hey Everyone! Just read your comments and found them very useful as I too am starting my phd in a few months! I am excited, nervous and a bit scared but your assurances have put my mind at ease! I am meeting my supervisor today, he seems really nice! My main worry however is contacting the leading academics/specialists in your field, do you find this is easy to do?

Hi ChrisG85! I recently applied for a Phd Studentship and was successful so maybe my tips would be helpful to you! In my cover letter I wrote mainly about why I was applying for this particular phd studentship, what skills I had to enable me to see this research to completion, my research interests and interest in this particular research area and why I chose this particular university to apply to. I have been told that the aim of a cover letter is to sell yourself without being over confident and cocky! Also google cover letters for phd application - I got some useful tips this way! Hope this was of use to you. Best of luck with your applications!

Thanks Heifer! That really helps!

Its at UCL, looking at the effects of policies to reduce the supply of illicit tobacco upon UK smokers. I have been asked to prepare a 5min presentation on 'smokers and the use of illicit tobacco'. Any advice?

Hi Everyone! Just received an invitation for an interview for the phd I applied for! Really excited, but also really nervous! Was wondering if you guys have any advice on what to expect as you have all been through it before. Would really value your input! Thanks in advance guys!

Are you having a break with your kitkats? Haha! Ignore my lame joke. I am so bored at work right now, it is all I can do to keep me from losing my mind!

Hey Everyone!
In the process of applying for a PhD...really exciting stuff! And can I say from reading some of the threads on this forum...I cannot wait to be one of you guys! Gosh!

PS
Liminalplace is that weight watchers carrot cake still on offer?