What would you say to a new researcher, about to start their EUI experience?
Answer: The beginning of the Ph.D. can bring about mixed feelings. On one hand, you will certainly be happy to start working on your own project. On the other hand, you may feel anxious given that you will have to fulfil institutional requirements and meet expectations of your supervisor. Balancing these feelings, I believe, is key to successful progress from the first year to the second, and onward.
Further, reading, analyzing data, and carrying out interviews etc. are great learning opportunities on their own beyond their instrumental value for the completion of the Phd. Last but not least, remember that Phd entails trial and error. The mistakes you do on the way of course will disappoint you, but they will also you push to find alternative solutions, test different hypotheses, and integrate different perspectives into your work. Therefore, enjoy the journey.
Mario Spiezio, EUI Department of Political and Social Sciences researcher, from Italy