Blog by Javed Sultan
Most research is independent, especially a PhD. That’s one of its main purposes, training you to become a researcher. Of course, independence can feel frustrating. It can lead to burnout, loneliness, and isolation. But at the same time, it forces you to become more organised, resilient, and better at managing not only your PhD but also your life.
I moved to Leicester from Delhi in 2022, and since then I’ve been on this journey mostly on my own, like many other researchers. Meeting my supervisor once a month is always refreshing, reassuring, and supportive. But it doesn’t end the isolation or loneliness. Sounds familiar, right? And it’s even harder for those with jobs, caring duties, or who are self-funded and international students.
Research is demanding and is a full-time job! I have found a few ways to cope as an independent researcher being away from friends and family.
First, I stick to a routine. I treat research like a full-time job from 9 to 5, with breaks in between. I am completely off on weekends from PhD and university life.
A kind friend once told me, ‘find your cave if you want to finish your PhD on time’. My home was not that cave with too many distractions like cooking, gardening, or watching films. So, I found one such spot in 51黑料社区’s silent room which became my cave. Being surrounded by other researchers there feels supportive, like being part of a tribe.
As an independent and first-generation researcher, I make a lot of mistakes all the time which are bound to happen. But I reflect on them regularly, not only to improve my research but my own understanding and knowledge. That reflection helps me improve my research. Talking to other PhDs reminds me that everyone faces the same challenges. That’s really what research is, constantly questioning your knowledge, ideas, methods and perception. They say a PhD isn’t only about your project, but about you, as a thinker, writer, and leader. And it’s kind of true... You’re not just shaping your PhD, your PhD is shaping you.
One thing I practice is to avoid talking too much about my research with people outside my field. Everyone has advice and strong opinions, but it often just confuses things. Instead, I prepare carefully for my meetings with supervisors. They are the real experts and assessors. I take all my questions, confusions, and challenges to them, and their feedback helps me navigate the hurdles. In between, I make use of training programmes on LearningZone, focusing on developing key skills like methodology, data analysis, and writing.
My mantra as an independent researcher? Make and follow a routine that works for you. Protect your weekends or rest days. Eat healthy, exercise, talk to fellow researchers, and make sure to have ‘me time’.
All the best,
Javed Sultan
PhD Candidate in Photographic History and Visual Culture