Emory recognizes National Dissertation Day

Posted onAuthorKylie E. Shannon

April 26th is National Dissertation Day: a day for graduate students to refocus their attention on finishing their dissertations and prepare for graduation.

Emory University’s Laney Graduate School proudly awards an average of 250 doctoral degrees each year. Entering the workforce with a PhD offers many advantages, such as a wider job pool, higher starting income, and strong industry connections. Emory PhD graduates have gone on to build successful and impactful careers in their chosen fields.

Of course, before you can enjoy calling yourself “Doctor,” you must get over that terrible hurdle of actually writing your dissertation.

In the U.S., only 50% of students who enter doctoral programs will graduate. Only 50% of doctoral students finish their dissertation. Don’t let your dissertation be the thing that stands between you and that all so important honorific!

Here are some tips to get back on track:

  • Write before you feel ready.
  • Break the project into small, manageable goals.
  • Get regular feedback. Don’t wait until you’ve “finished” a section before submitting it for review.
  • Find a support system. Coordinate with fellow students to hold each other accountable.
  • Stick to a writing routine.
  • Write when you are most productive.
  • Write in spaces where you feel productive and comfortable.
  • Use refence management tools to keep your citations organized and consistent.
  • Prepare needed copyright permissions.
  • Step away when you’re stuck! Try something different.
  • Aim for progress, not perfection.
  • Do not multitask. Set boundaries against distractions.
  • Take care of yourself! You can’t pour from an empty cup.

Artistic rendering of woman resting her head on a hand while looking at a laptop, surrounded by shelves of books and papers.

The Emory Libraries’ Scholarly Communications Office is available for assistance. Our Copyright Librarian, John Morgenstern, can assist you with copyright concerns. Our Open Access Librarian, Jenny Townes, and our Department Head, Jody Bailey, can assist with questions regarding open access and embargo options. Our Repository Coordinator, Kylie Shannon, can assist with questions regarding the submission process.

Remember to Keep Calm, and Finish Your Dissertation!

 

Author: Kylie Shannon, Scholarly Repository Coordinator.

Image: AI generated, no copyright.