These are the things I want to tell to postgraduate students as I see the truths behind being a postgraduate student.
Having a Ph.D degree is not a ticket for you to get a job. I just realise that the chance I will ever get to join a public university as a lecturer is like <10 %. That’s sooo thin.
These are some pointers I’d like to share based on my experience:
- Improve your English proficiency. Seriously. It’s a sad truth, but the first impression is always important, and that is your English.
- Publishing papers is more important than reading without writing.
- Manage your time, and try your best to graduate on time. Usually, the organisations that will hire you are concerned about GRADUATE-ON-TIME, especially if you hunt for a job in a university.
- Excel academically, but get active in university societies (faculty level, at least) too; so, you beautify your resumé. Organize and attend workshops if possible. This, too, would assist you in your study and career later.
- Your attitude to others matters; but, you don’t have to please everyone. Build a good relationship with your supervisor and labmates. But, never take it too much because some will just use you. Just. Be. Careful.
- Be active, bold, and dominant. No one cares if you are weak.
- Make sure your social media is neat, contains good posts and not complaints.
Being good in academics is a must for postgraduate students. But, it is still not enough if you want to use your certificate to hunt for a job. Unless you just want to gain “knowledge”.
Nur Nabihah
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