The Journey of Collaborative Research: A PhD Student's Perspective

As I prepare my first paper with my professor, every aspect - from the topic and thesis to research methods, result interpretation, and conclusion - has been a subject of intense debate.

My professor maintains high standards, emphasizing the importance of doing things properly and producing a dissertation worthy of a PhD candidate. Our meetings often involve heated discussions bordering on arguments.

Late Nights and Quick Responses

Even after submitting revisions late into the night, I'm surprised to receive feedback within hours. I find myself thinking, 'I should rest a bit before our next meeting...'

Growth Through Conflict

Throughout our research collaboration, we engage in constant communication via calls, messages, emails, and both online and offline meetings. Despite our discussions often reaching the intensity of verbal sparring (while maintaining mutual respect), I feel a sense of growth.

Comparing my initial draft to the latest revision, I can see significant improvements that I'm proud of.

A Dedicated Mentor

My mentor, a junior professor in a new lab, never hesitates to dedicate time to our research despite an incredibly busy schedule. Our conversations often extend beyond academics, with the professor sharing personal experiences about the challenges of pursuing a PhD and offering words of encouragement.

The professor always refers to me as a 'friend' and consistently uses respectful language, even occasionally mixing in casual speech during informal chats. However, in official settings, formal language is maintained out of respect and to avoid any potential missteps.

A Holistic Approach to Mentorship

Remarkably, I've never been asked to handle administrative tasks. When I first joined from another university, the professor took time to show me around campus, discussing potential research directions, methodologies, and recommended readings over lunch and walks.

These shared meals and walks continue, now with more personal conversations as our relationship develops. I address the professor as 'teacher,' reflecting my view of them as a true mentor, a title they've embraced.

A Rare and Valuable Relationship

Finding a scholar I aspire to emulate and walking this path together isn't always easy, but my mentor stands by me even through the toughest challenges.

I recognize that my experience might seem unbelievable to some and relatable to others. I hope that, with time, more people will have similar positive experiences. And someday, when I establish myself in academia, I aspire to be the kind of mentor my students would proudly call 'teacher.'