Case studies: PhD student: Helen

Helen completed a BSc in Archaeology at Durham University. She enjoyed the degree so much that she continued on to do a Masters in Archaeology (Prehistory). She is now undertaking a PhD in Archaeology.

My choice of course was made on the basis that I got on well with people in my department, including my supervisors, and I really enjoyed the research. I went straight on from the undergraduate to do the postgraduate course, funding myself using savings and part-time work at a local pub.

I took an enforced year out before starting my PhD as I didn’t get funding and wanted to re-apply. Looking back, I’d certainly recommend a year out at some point as it gave me time to recharge the batteries and get re-focused.

During that year, I started work part time and re-applied and failed to get funding for the next year. I decided to go ahead with the PhD anyway as the university offered me a bursary for my tuition fees, so I did the first year full time. As I was still working part time, I found it a struggle to balance work and research and took the decision to go part time at the beginning of my second year. I’m still working and have a variety of additional summer and term-time jobs including teaching, excavating and occasional work as a lithic specialist.

Both postgraduate degrees have allowed me to explore my specific interests and develop my academic writing and critical thinking. I’ve had the opportunity to undertake some teaching and lecturing, which has been fantastic, as well as getting more involved within the department and research communities and extending my networking.

The only disadvantages of undertaking further study are that you are not out there earning, and again (especially doing it part time), it takes a long-term commitment. However, it’s certainly the right choice for me as I’m loving it.

I’m also finding that doing my studies part time is a brilliant way to do your research as well as have time to build up your CV and gain further skills. It also gives you the chance to get yourself known in your discipline and outside it, making it more likely and easier to find a job at the other end.

I’d love to go into academia or research after I graduate, although due to the variety of jobs and skills I’ve gained through doing the degree part time I’ve got a number of options to choose from, which takes a bit of the pressure off.