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Post
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Apr 11, 2025
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phd-year3-2025
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PhD
thoughts
research
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Life
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Year three. Looking back, the whole research process finally went from a blur to something clear. I still feel like I know nothing and have nothing, but at least I understand how this road works.
A few real takeaways from three years in.
Your Advisor Matters
A good mentor saves you from so many detours. Everyone says this, but you only truly get it from experience.
Here's a pretty accurate rule: if people describe an advisor as just 'a nice person,' that's probably all they are. Academically, probably average at best -- got to where they are mostly through luck.
Your Lab Mates Matter Too
A good lab should be people exchanging ideas, discussing, giving feedback that actually gets taken seriously. Not everyone behind closed doors, nobody knowing what anyone else is working on.
Sadly, good labs like that are rare.
Find Something to Hold On To
PhD life is honestly harder to endure than factory work. You're young, full of energy, and stuck staring at a screen in a tiny lab all day. It's rough.
So you need something -- a relationship, gym, sports, a pet. Anything. Your life is your own. Don't pour all of yourself into work.
Document Your Work
Build the habit of keeping a work log. Spend a few minutes each day jotting down what you did, where you are, what's next.
Benefits: you always know you're not slacking, you have something to show during meetings, and looking back, you realize you've actually done quite a lot.
Speak More English
If you're doing a PhD in the US, English is unavoidable. But classes and lab meetings aren't enough -- you have to actively seek opportunities to speak. Join activities, chat with people, don't be afraid of embarrassment.
Embarrass yourself a few times and you'll get used to it. You'll never improve if you never speak.
Looking back from year three: the road isn't easy, but at least I can see where it leads. The rest is just putting in the work.
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