PhD Student Jitters...

Introduction

Living in Sunny Florida, I wake up to sunny filled days that offer hope and a vision of where I want to travel in my career journey. Currently, I find myself embarking on a journey that feels thrilling and a little scary at times. As an Instructional Design PhD student, my passion for education, technology, and innovative teaching methods led me to pursue this rewarding field of study. However, the path ahead is not without its challenges and uncertainties. In this blog post, I aim to share my experiences, fears, and strategies for coping with the nerves that come with being a novice in the world of Instructional Design.

1. Acknowledging the Nervousness

I have come to accept that the fear I am experiencing is normal. In my early forties, I am venturing on a path that is unknown to me. However, when I look at my professors, I realize that they too once stood where I am now. I embrace this nervousness as a sign of my commitment to grow and learn.

2. Reach Out to My Peers

One of the best ways to ease your nerves is to connect with fellow PhD students in Instructional Design or related fields. I am on an online program and the best comfort in sharing concerns or ideas, come from our course discussions. I take the opportunity when possible, to share my concerns and experiences with my fellow students, as they can provide valuable insights and support. Collaborating with my peers in peer review assignments help me gain a fresh perspective and foster a sense of community during my academic journey.

3. Seek Guidance from My Professors

My professors are not just educators but also mentors who have navigated the path I am now treading. I hesitate to seek their guidance and advice, but this is a huge mistake, as I know that they are always willing to help. They understand the challenges faced by doctoral students and can offer valuable advice to help me navigate through the program successfully.

4. Embracing the Learning Process

PhD programs in Instructional Design demand continuous learning and growth. I am well aware that the road to becoming an expert is rarely smooth. I embrace the challenges and celebrate small victories along the way. Each hurdle I overcome will makes me more resilient and capable as an instructional designer.

5. Attending Workshops and Conferences

Thankfully I am currently taking a course, Current Issues in Instructional Technology and I have gain confidence in my chosen career by staying updated with the latest trends. I have become a member of a couple of organizations such as eLearningheroes and Instructional Design Central. I plan to attend workshops and conferences as this is essential in this journey. These events provide opportunities to network with professionals in the field and learn from their experiences.

6. Staying Curious

Instructional Design is a dynamic field, and staying curious about emerging technologies, pedagogical methods, and research trends will pave the journey in this field for me. I need to be mindful of nurturing and cultivating a passion for continuous learning, and remember that curiosity is the key to unlocking new possibilities in my career.

7. Celebrating My Progress

Throughout my PhD journey, I celebrate all my accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Completing coursework and reflecting on my academic growth as an instructional designer is the fuel that keeps me going strong. The best part is to share each course accomplishment with my children and spouse.

8. Family and Support

I have young children, one is 7 years old and my eldest is 14 years old. I work a full time job as a higher education administrator and also teach at the State College as an adjunct instructor. My children miss me, they need me, and so does my husband. Coming home after 12 hours of work to sit down and study is very tough. However, my family is home waiting for me. Seeing their happiness, the bone breaking hugs, and the leg scratches that my two miniature teacup Yorkies mark on my lower legs makes me realize that what I am doing, I need to push through and show them that mommy can do this. I do not want to disappoint them. I want to make them proud and also show an example of personal growth and life long learning. Truth be told, I would not be able to do this without them.

Conclusion

As I take each step on this path, I remind myself that nervousness is just a part of the process. Embracing challenges and uncertainties is essential to becoming a competent instructional designer. I wish I could reach out to peers more. I wish I could seek more guidance from professors outside of class. Staying curious, and celebrating progress are the key elements in helping me overcome my fears and excel in this profession. So, to all my fellow nervous PhD students in Instructional Design, let's embrace this journey together and make a positive impact on education, one calm and slow heartbeat at a time. 😊