Finish Your Dissertation | Drs. Allen Roba & Lauren Saunders

Want to listen to this episode instead? Check it out on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. 

This week, I talk with Drs. Allen and Lauren about why dissertation writing is a unique process, what PhD students should do to ensure they finish their dissertation, and their book "PhDone: A Professional Dissertation Editor's Guide to Writing Your Doctoral Thesis and Earning Your PhD."

Here are some takeaways from our conversation: 

• Unique Nature of Dissertations: A dissertation stands alone as a distinct form of writing, aimed at proving one's eligibility for a degree, differing significantly from other types of writing such as articles or books.

• Common Obstacles in Dissertation Writing: Challenges like changing advisors, unexpected issues in data collection, and bureaucratic hurdles after submission can significantly delay the completion process.

• Utilize Available Resources: It's essential to seek and use resources available, whether that's mental health services, advisors, peers, or professional editors, to ease the burdens of dissertation writing.

• Tips for Writing Success: Structuring a writing practice, allowing imperfect drafts, and maintaining consistency in engaging with the dissertation content can significantly enhance productivity and progress.

• Post-Dissertation Perspectives: Viewing the dissertation not just as an academic obligation but as a potential foundation for diverse career paths, publications, or personal accomplishments beyond academia.

• Maintaining Work-Life Balance: Structuring the dissertation writing process akin to a job, setting specific work hours, and ensuring time off are crucial for avoiding burnout and ensuring a sustainable academic journey.

• Preparing for Life After Academia: Considering a wide array of career options beyond the confines of academia, understanding that the research conducted for the dissertation can be repurposed for various endeavors outside the academic realm.

⬇️ Links to everything mentioned in the show ⬇️

The Book "PhDone" on Amazon

Allen and Lauren's dissertation editing website

My Six Week Checklist for industry-bound academics