For my next thread I wanted to talk about being a PhD in this pandemic world. I know we have all been living virtually for the past year, so I will just highlight a few thoughts for students in doctoral programs virtually #GeczikTwitterTakeover 1/9

One of the weirdest parts of virtual PhD life is it is harder to connect with others that you only know through Zoom class. This was something I had not anticipated as a challenge going in, but I am happy to report that you can still form friendships virtually! 2/9

I am so thankful that some of my colleagues have suggested virtual check-ins. Some that occur once a month and some that are more frequent. Being in a PhD program can feel very isolating at times. 3/9

Especially because being sequestered in our homes makes it easier to get lost in the code/lost in the readings/etc without the natural breaks of being in a shared office space. Some days this definitely adds to my productivity though, but other days it can be really hard. 4/9

Something really cool that has come out of this virtual life is that I have had the opportunity to participate in more academic & research specific conferences than I normally would. Without the worry of cost and time burden of traveling. 5/9

There have been a lot of #firefighterhealth virtual symposiums that I have been able to join because they are virtual (and free). This has been an unexpected plus of virtual life as these opportunities have been helpful I start to think about my dissertation proposal. 6/9

Also as a form of self-care and a new hobby I took up embroidery! I ordered some embroidery kits and worked on my first project throughout my Winter Quarter. It was a nice way to destress after class and it was rewarding to have a finished project at the end of a busy quarter 7/9

I am looking forward to getting to experience PhD life in person once it is safe, but wanted to send out a huge shout out to all of my professors, mentor, and research team who have really created an enjoyable learning experience in this new format! 8/9

To close this thread, my biggest piece of advice is find time for your own self-care in the format that works best for you to avoid feeling burned out. Virtual (or in-person) PhD life can be tiring, so taking time to recharge and refocus your energy can be very helpful 9/9