Advice on write-up and pregnancy!
Hello everyone.
This is the first time I am posting anything. The reason for this initiation is my exhausting, time consuming PhD and my swollen belly!
So, I started my PhD in chemical science 3-4 years ago and I think I’ll complete it the next year, with the way things are going. I didn’t really planned on getting knocked up during the studies, but oh well, what can I say, some-times some-things are just supposed to happen.
Initially I thought I can handle it, I mean how difficult can it get you know? Turns out that its way too difficult AND exhausting! As I am nearing the end of my course, things have been way too tight, 9-5 in labs and then writing the thesis! And to top it all, my supervisor has retired and went off living at some country side farm! What luck!
I am in crises guys! I have just finished my analysis and only written my first chapter. This is too slow, considering that I have crossed my 3rd year. The university is easy on me due to my situation but I need to hurry up.
My query? How do I write-up in a fast forward way? I would love any advice, especially from the women who have experienced a similar situation! Thank you.
Posted in: PhD Thesis
Jillian Harwell 11:19 am on March 15, 2016 Permalink | Log in to Reply
Hi Diana, the first thing I’d like to say is, DITTO! I am 5 months pregnant and I am writing up too. I can totally relate with your situation, though it’s a bit different from mine. For me, being pregnant was an obsession and I thought that the PhD time will be perfect as you don’t have to go daily for work (it’s less tiring than a job). I can have a baby, take care of it, and after few years look for a job.
I didn’t imagine the ‘exhaustion’ to be so ‘exhausting’ though. And the hormones, God, I feel like I am 18. I am pissed off on everything, crying on small things and taking a lot more tension that I need to take. I am gonna advice you (what I advise myself) that take deep breaths, eat chocolate cookies and relax. You won’t be able to concentrate on writing, until and unless your mind is at peace. And how can you fast-forward the whole process, is by taking help from a friend. I made my husband write the second chapter for me (in exchange of cooking breakfast for him, daily). Maybe you can get someone to write a portion of your thesis?
Diana Freeh 10:57 am on March 18, 2016 Permalink | Log in to Reply
Hello Jillian, Thanks for replying. I am so glad that there is someone who can understand my situation.
I don’t think I can trust anyone with my thesis-writing. My friends do offer their help but they aren’t experts in my subject. Moreover, only I know my research, so how can anyone else write up for me?
I do all the relaxing things, and recently I have started writing on the kitchen counter, which seems to work. Good thing though, that my lab work is over, thank the gods for that!