We recently finished our second retreat of second cohort PhDs. For four days we called the beautiful but these days extremely windy island of Helgoland our home, where we learned a lot about, yes you guessed right, science communication (SciComm as the insiders say). This is one of the reasons why we’re now more than ever motivated to keep this blog updated and enable you a glimpse into our everyday PhD lives.
Besides science communication we used the time wisely to discuss our latest achievements and looked back critically at the passed 1.5 years, which is an important number to most of us, since it means half-time. Realizing that already half of the time within our projects passed is somehow scary but at the same time rather motivating to continue and here it is extremely helpful to share all experiences, doubts and challenges with our fellow colleagues. And of course a nice and long walk along the beach, watching all the so cute seals together always helps. =)
Our group in front of AWI Helgoland, paying attention that we’re not blown away by the strong wind. (Photo by Damien Ringeisen)
Another highlight of this retreat, and I think most of us agree here, was our two-day workshop in Arctic Science History. Two passionate gentlemen with long working experience at AWI, shared all their expertise, adventures and knowledge with us and were as eager to listen to ours.
To sum it up in a nutshell, all these workshops, times together and appreciation from all sides is the huge advantage of a PhD research training group. I have to confess that, without this, I’d probably feel lost a lot more and especially a lot more often. These occasions make me realize over and over again how much I gain from it and that I don’t want to miss it anymore. Which is why joining a graduate school is something I’d recommend to everyone starting or doing a PhD!
Cheers,
Lina
Seal on the beach, seen during our outdoor walk. (Photo by Damien Ringeisen)
Northern gannet on Helgoland’s cliffs. (Photo by Damien Ringeisen)
More northern gannets on Helgoland’s cliffs. (Photo by Damien Ringeisen)