Before offering any comments, who are you to speak on the matter? Well, the answer is simple: I am someone who has personally experienced it.
When I first embarked on my research journey, the seed of curiosity was planted in my mind. The initial step I took was to engage in discussions with fellow research aspirants and individuals who had already achieved their research goals. This provided me with invaluable insights and a deeper understanding of the path I intended to pursue. It is essential to have genuine conversations and not hesitate to seek clarification, even for seemingly trivial doubts. Embracing diverse perspectives, dreams, and ideas enables us to gain a comprehensive overview of our own goals, anticipate challenges along the way, and explore alternative approaches.
The next step may sound somewhat fanciful, but it holds significance. Allow yourself to dream about your research. Visualize yourself completing it and standing with a uniquely different perspective. Tap into the energy derived from that vision and begin your search for the ideal environment to conduct your research.
Start by considering the top-tier institutions on your list before gradually exploring mid-level options. Avoid immediately focusing on the least preferred institutions. Following this, it is time to choose a research topic. This step demands patience and a transformation akin to a caterpillar turning into a cocoon. Dive into reading journal publications and find joy in this pursuit (I acknowledge that it may not evoke the same excitement as scrolling through Instagram). Engage in discussions with close ones about what you have read, find happiness in these conversations. Eventually, you will experience a genuine fascination while reading, and just like in a romantic movie, you will discover that spark within a journal publication. It’s worth noting that this spark can originate from multiple sources, as there’s no requirement for monogamy in the relationship between you and your research topic.
Once you reach that stage, plan to seek guidance from someone you perceive as a mentor, someone who radiates positivity. Discuss your research plan with them, and you will gain valuable insights into the pros and cons of pursuing your dream topic. Remain open to their suggestions and recommendations.
Once you have finalized your research topic, begin crafting a plan for its execution and write an abstract. Maintain a positive mindset while composing the abstract, but let your intellect guide you more than your emotions at this stage. Once you have prepared, you can start applying to your dream colleges. As you receive interview invitations, present your abstract with enthusiasm and intrigue. Anticipate challenges during the interviews but maintain a positive and receptive attitude, as those conducting the interviews have already realized their own dreams. They may question or raise concerns based on practicality, so be prepared to revise and defend your points confidently. Be honest during presentations and open discussions. Now, you are ready to embark on your research journey. Happy researching!