Sharing session: Preparing for PhD Scholarships and Academic Interviews

Indira Puteri Kinasih

indiraputeri@uinmataram.ac.id

Ph.D student - Math Science (FOS-UBD)

December 21, 2024

The Journey

Recipe & Ingredients

Preparing Your Application: a must read recipe

Key Links

• Scholarship Details: UBD Graduate Research Scholarship and UBD Bursary Award

• Entry Requirements: Graduate Entry Requirements

• Online admission link

Preparing Your Application: the ingredients

• Academic CV:
  • Highlight academic achievements
  • Include research experience and publications
• Research proposal:
  • Clear objectives and methodology
  • Connect with potential supervisors (optional)
• Personal statement:
  • Tailor to UBD requirements
  • Explain your motivation and alignment with UBD’s research strengths
• Letters of recommendation:
  • Request early!
  • Choose recommenders who know your work well

Key preparation points

1. Review UBD Research Strengths:

   • Explore research areas and active projects at UBD.

     The UGRS will prioritise funding for high impact research within the current research thrusts of UBD and Brunei including (but not limited to): Energy, Material Science, Biodiversity, Data Analytics, Asian and Islamic Studies, Bioinspiration, Climate Change, Herbal Medicine, Sensor Technology and Catalysis.

   • Align your proposal with these research priorities.

2. Engage with Potential Supervisors Early:
   • Why?: Strong recommendations from supervisors can increase your chances.
   • Identify faculty whose expertise aligns with your research interests.
   • Approach them with a concise introduction and your research idea.

Example

Have time to explore your ‘home’ wannabe

• Faculty website: Mathematical Science

• Faculty academic member

• Prospective supervisors website (if available)

The interview

“nervous is normal, preparation is a must!”

Academic Interview Preparation

What to expect:

-   Discuss your research proposal
-   Explain why UBD is your choice
-   Address your long-term goals
-   Assess your communication skills, including english skills
-   will not last more than 30 minutes

Academic Interview Preparation(contd’)

• Practical tips:
  • Practice common questions (e.g., “Why this research?”, “how much you’ve explored this topic?”);
  • Be open to discuss about the possibility of how your research data will be gained (in general);
  • Be clear and concise;
  • Prepare to discuss your CV and academic background in depth
  • Understand the question(s);
  • Be truthful!

Common Questions in Interviews

• Examples of common questions:
  • Why do you want to pursue a PhD?
  • How does your research align with UBD?
  • What challenges do you anticipate, and how will you handle them?
  • What are your career goals after the PhD?
• Note:For the latest process (though it may vary), there are typically two separate interviews: the first with a faculty member and the second with the graduate admissions committee.

Final Tips

• Time management:
  • Start applications early
  • Practice interviews with peers or mentors
• Communication:
  • Be clear and specific in your application and interviews
  • Show confidence and enthusiasm
• Stay organised:
  • Track deadlines and requirements
  • Prepare documents systematically

Remember

“each journey is unique. Enjoy yours and always prepare for the worst :)”

Good luck and thank you :)