PE&RC First Year Retreat: Kickstart Your PhD Journey
Starting a PhD is an exciting step and it can feel a bit overwhelming at times. Our First year Retreat is designed to help you to get a better sense of what lies ahead and how to make the most of your PhD experience.
During the retreat, you’ll learn:
- What to expect during the PhD process
- How to avoid common pitfalls and setbacks
- What’s needed to complete a successful PhD within four years
- How the Graduate School supports you throughout your journey
Connect and share
The retreat is also about meeting other PhD candidates, sharing experiences, and learning from each other. You’ll have the chance to build a network of peers you can turn to for advice and support, something especially valuable for international PhD candidates and those new to their University.
Learn, relax, and have Fun
It’s not all about work! There will be plenty of time for social and leisure activities, giving you a chance to relax and get to know your fellow PhD candidates in an informal way.
So join us for a few inspiring days to learn, connect, and start your PhD journey with confidence!
Day 1: The PdD trip
| 09:00 | Arrival at the hotel for all participants |
| 09:30 | Welcome & introduction to the retreat Doing a PhD - part 1 |
| 12:30 | Lunch |
| 13:30 | Doing a PhD - part 2 Outdoor Activity |
| 17:30 | Room check in / Drinks at the bar / Free time |
| 18:00 | Dinner |
| 19:30 | Free time / game night |
Day 2: Managing your PhD
| 08:00 | Breakfast |
| 09:00 | Prepare SWOT presentation & identify potential solutions Groups present which main challenge they identified Effective and efficient (verbal) communication |
| 12:30 | Lunch |
| 13:30 | Communication, Planning and Management game |
| 18:30 | Dinner |
| 19:30 | Pub quiz & Party |
Day 3: Your PhD plan
| 08:30 | Breakfast + Room check out |
| 9.30 | Workshop with actor How to make your PhD a success? |
| 12:30 | Lunch |
| 13:30 | Your plan of action for your PhD Plenary discussion / Take-aways Last round of questions Synthesis and closing of the retreat |
| 14:30 | Depature back home |
Logistical issues
Bring outdoor clothing and a rain coat, since we will be taking a walk in the forest. All meals are included, drinks at the bar are at your own cost.
The retreat is free of charge for all PE&RC PhD candidates (all others pay €200). This includes accommodation, all meals and coffee/tea. Beverages at the bar and snacks are on your own account.
PE&RC Cancellation Conditions
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS read the Cancellation conditions for PE&RC courses and activities.
Please note that if you cancel within a week and a half before the start the Retreat or are a 'no show' we will charge you €200 cancelation fee.