Hi

As far as I know, you just apply in the same way but you are in competition with candidates for other projects in the same department as well as the project you have applied for. Basically, I think the department has been allocated a certain amount of funding and the best candidates get their choice of PhD with funding. I think then that the other projects don't go ahead unless the student is self funded.

Yeah that's true, can't live with the parents forever! I think a change of scene would probably do me good anyway. The supervisor is Professor Furness. His research sounds really interesting so i'm definitely going to apply. Good luck with writing up!

Thanks for your reply. I'm glad you're enjoying it there. It's the research that really interests me but I've never been to Glasgow and it's a long time to live somewhere isn't it. I think I applied there many moons ago for my undergrad but never actually visited. Wish I had now! I'm off to find cheap train tickets now.

Hello,

Just wondered if there's anyone here at Glasgow Uni (or who went there in the past). I'm thinking of applying there and just wondered what people's experiences are of the university and the city. I'm planning a small visit also but it's handy to get an idea first hand from people who have lived there.

Cheers

Thanks shanghaichica, your advice was really helpful. I've written it now so fingers crossed!

Ooh just wanted to ask too, should I mention voluntary work i've done with regards to research? I only have a bit (few days mammal trapping/6 weeks wildlife work abroad) and it's not directly relevant to the PhD but gave me new skills/techniques etc. I don't want to look like i'm dragging it out because the only paid work i've ever done is temp office/supermarket stuff!

Cheers

Thanks everyone for your advice. I sort of know what i'm going to write now. I'm only applying for PhD's I have a strong interest in rather than just do a PhD because i'm not sure what else to do so hopefully that'll stand me in good stead.

Thanks again.

No problems with bigging myself up, I sometimes have to remind myself I'm actually capable of studying/working at this level! I do really really want to research in this area so hopefully that will come across.

May be a silly question but how long are cover letters supposed to be, or is it a little bit like asking how long's a piece of string? Another thing is my undergraduate project was in a completely different area (I've had a bit of a change of direction), but my Msc project is very relevant. Should i gloss over my undergrad project and just focus on the MSc or is it best to explain my change of research interests?
Sorry for all the questions!

Thanks a lot for your reply. I kind of thought that I shouldn't go on too much, especially as they don't ask for a proposal. I'll focus more on my skills and relevant experience. Handily my project was in the same area so hopefully that'll help. If I get to the interview stage will they ask about my knowledge of the area then?
Thanks again.

Hi,

I'm applying for a PhD that requires a CV, cover letter and 2 referees. I just need a bit of help with the kind of detail included in the covering letter. I've already searched the forum and found some hints with info such as saying why you're suitable, qualifications, what motivates you etc. But I was wondering should I be including evidence of papers i've read relevant to the topic, a mini review of the area if you like (references included)? I obviously want to appear interested in the area but don't want to include irrelevant information that supervisors might be put off by. Any help most appreciated.
Many thanks.