You are probably familiar with the horror stories of thesis writing: strict deadlines, long nights, writer’s block, and last-minute cramming. However, my story was worse than any one-night all-nighter.
Not because of any singular mistake, but my ignorance and a series of unfortunate events regarding my data led to a complete and utter disaster about four weeks before the final turn-in deadline. This resulted in me having to change my research question and restart from square one. Did I call my dad, declaring my surrender on more than one occasion? Yes. But with some perseverance and tough love advice from those phone calls, I made it through—and you can, too.
While I don’t wish my personal experience on anybody, I believe it was one of the greatest learning experiences of my academic career.
Here are some of my takeaways:
Use your resources: Everyone is there to help you—if you let them. One of my biggest regrets is not using the class TA sooner. Tasks that would take me days, I later discovered, could be completed in a few-hour-long session. Working with the TA also ensured that my work was done correctly. Building the relationship early on will only benefit you in this process. Acknowledge that you are not an expert, and be open to asking for and accepting help.
Advocate for yourself: Unfortunately, nobody cares about your thesis as much as you do. Everybody has their own lives to live, and your deadlines are not their top priority. You may have to send multiple follow-up emails to get a meeting or to have somebody read your draft. Do not take it personally, but stay active and consistent. Do not be passive; you do not have the room in your timeline.
Give yourself grace: Most likely, this is your first time ever conducting research and writing a thesis. It is a learning process that takes several months and is nowhere close to linear. My classmates and I often joked about how one step forward was somehow three steps backwards simultaneously. Some days will feel heavier than others, but surrender to the fact that it is all a part of the process, and give yourself some grace. All you can do is keep trying. Remember, it would not be an accomplishment if it were considered easy.
Romanticize the process: Establish a productive workspace outside your bedroom and romanticize the process. I recommend finding a spot that serves coffee because the baristas and I were on a first-name basis by the time this whole thing was over. Your mindset can completely change your experience, and if you choose this project, I suggest also choosing not to be miserable. Celebrate your little wins and find some enjoyment in your work.
As painfully cliche as it sounds, it will all work out. Everyone around you is there to support you (even if you have to send a follow-up email or two) and cheer you on. Believe in yourself and you can do this — I promise.
Ashley Porth is a senior at the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, majoring in Healthcare Management and Policy with a minor in Business. Her Honors Thesis is “Hospital Ownership Matters: Understanding the Gap in Patient Experience Scores Between For-Profit and Not-For-Profit Hospitals.” Following graduation, she will begin the Commercial Development Program at GE Appliances and work toward earning her MBA.
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