Supervisory Development Adventure: My AS102 Experience at CTLD

Hey there fellow academics and aspiring PhD supervisors!

Today, I’m super stoked to share my recent escapade at the Supervisory Development Program AS102, which went down at CTLD from 3rd to 5th July 2023. Trust me, this journey was nothing short of an academic rollercoaster, and I’m here to spill the beans about all the goodies I picked up during this intense crash course.

First things first, let me tell you, I was all nerves stepping into this program. The thought of being responsible for molding the minds of budding PhD students seemed both thrilling and terrifying at the same time. But hey, I put on my brave face and dove headfirst into this whirlwind adventure.

They covered everything from communication skills to fostering a supportive environment for our PhD candidates. It wasn’t just about being a know-it-all; it was about being a mentor, a guide, and a friend (well, a friendly friend, you get what I mean). We delved into the art of constructive feedback, and let me tell you, it’s not just about pointing out flaws; it’s about nurturing potential and helping students flourish.

The best part? Meeting like-minded colleagues from various fields. It was inspiring to see how we all shared the same passion for nurturing research and helping PhD students make their mark in the academic world. There were lively discussions, plenty of coffee breaks, and even a late-night karaoke session (where my rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody” may or may not have made an appearance).

The program concluded with a heartfelt closing ceremony. We exchanged contact info and promised to stay in touch, forming a tight-knit network of future PhD supervisors. I left the CTLD feeling both enriched and motivated, ready to take on the challenge of guiding the next generation of scholars.

So, if you ever get the chance to embark on the AS102 Supervisory Development Program, don’t hesitate! It’s a wild ride, but one that will equip you with invaluable supervisory skills and a renewed sense of purpose. Here’s to fostering academic brilliance and turning PhD students into unstoppable forces of knowledge!

Until next time, keep learning, keep growing, and keep nurturing those brilliant minds! Cheers! 🎓🌟