Introduction

Writing a PhD application is a long process (for tips on how to write a PhD personal statement click here! Looking back at my first round of applications, I made some mistakes I wish someone had warned me about. If you are thinking about applying to a PhD, here are the top mistakes I made and how you could learn from them!

1. Mistake One: Not Tailoring my PhD application
2. Mistake Two: Not leaving enough time
3. Mistake Three: Letting Impostor Syndrome Hold Me Back
4. Mistake Four: Not highlighting my skills effectively
5. Mistake Five: Underestimating the importance of networking
6. Mistake 6: Not applying to enough programs

Mistake One: Not Tailoring my PhD application

I sent very similar personal statements to different programs. My personal statement included a list of skills at which I excelled and explained why I was generally interested in science. I thought a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach would work. Spoiler: It didn’t!

How to avoid it: Tailor each application to the specific program or supervisor. First, list all your skills. Then, connect them to how they might fit the lab’s needs. Also, highlight why their interests align with your interest in the lab. Specificity shows genuine interest and effort, which sets you apart.

Mistake Two: Not leaving enough time

I underestimated how long the PhD application process would take. I was scrambling to meet deadlines between crafting a strong personal statement, reaching out to potential supervisors, and gathering reference letters.

How to avoid it: Begin preparation early. Ideally, start a couple of months before the deadline. However, assess what time you feel is sufficient. Research programs, draft documents, and contact supervisors well in advance. Remember, supervisors and referees are busy people, so give them plenty of time to review your material. I recommend turning on notification alerts to websites such as FindaPhD. This way, you could be the first to know about a position when it becomes available!

Mistake Three: Letting Impostor Syndrome Hold Me Back

Some of the programs I found and wanted to apply to have a low acceptance rate with high competition. This put me off applying to numerous programs because I thought I wasn’t good enough.

How to avoid it: Remember, PhD programs aren’t looking for perfection, but rather potential. Focus on your strengths and unique experiences. Applying itself is an achievement, so don’t let self-doubt get in the way. (Sidenote: One of the programs I was too scared to apply to two years ago accepted me last year!).

Mistake Four: Not highlighting my skills effectively

In my first few personal statement drafts, I focused on my passion for science. While this is good, it lacked concrete examples of my skills and achievements, this in a way proves my passion for science.

How to avoid it: Use specific examples to demonstrate your passion for the subject. For example, rather than saying “I am passionate about neuroscience,” write “in my master’s project on spinal cord injury, I developed expertise in vivo work. This experience allowed me to use various techniques such as immunohistochemistry and data analysis. I want to further explore this area while improving my skills.” Remember, show, don’t just tell!

Mistake Five: Underestimating the importance of networking

I assumed that PhD applications were enough, but I missed the opportunity to connect with potential supervisors at networking events. I also did not reach out to any supervisors before applying. I know many people who have gotten a PhD position through networking alone!

How to avoid it: Reach out to potential supervisor before applying. Introduce yourself, ask questions about their research and you can even ask if they, or a member of the lab, is free to have a chat about potential projects. Building a rapport can make you application memorable and increase your chances of acceptance. Also attend networking events and speak to current PhD students about how they secured their PhD position.

Mistake 6: Not applying to enough programs

I know PhD applications are very time-consuming, but according to the law of probability, you will have a higher chance of securing a PhD position the more you apply. The first time around I only applied to three programs. I didn’t look beyond the PhD programs I had already heard of.

How to avoid it: Start early and research all the programs available for your specific area of interest. Set aside some time for complete focus on your applications, researching the programs and supervisors. Applying to a lot of programs may sound daunting, but it will all be worth it in the end! 🙂

Conclusion

Though the PhD application process is challenging, with proper planning and awareness of common pitfalls, it is entirely manageable! Whether you are applying now, or planning to in the future, learn from my mistakes and set yourselves up for success! You’ve got this!