Over the past months, in addition
to pursuing my studies, I have undertaken a number of extra-curricular
activities to help me develop as a researcher. These activities have been
diverse and focus around four very different authors. The only thing they have
in common is that they’re all no longer with us. Charlotte
Smith was a highly respected poet and novelist who enjoyed huge popularity
during her lifetime. Mary
Linskill was a Victorian novelist who spent most of her life enduring
crushing poverty. Mrs
Basil Holmes was a social investigator and writer of a history of the
London cemeteries toward the end of the Victorian era, and Penny Jordan
wrote trashy romantic novels (lots of trashy romantic novels – 187 for Mills
& Boon alone).
Recently, I have presented
conference papers on each of these authors, all in the name of developing my
confidence as a public speaker (of which I had little or none). The other thing
they share is that I adore their work. As a result of this, speaking about them
and presenting their work is generally a positive (and confidence-boosting)
experience. I know their work so well, and feel so passionately about the value
of it (yes, even the trashy romantic novels!), that I’m quite prepared to
answer any difficult questions which might arise on their works.
In addition, I’ve also written an
essay on the subject of Mary Linskill and a book review on a Mills & Boon
romantic novel. These have both been accepted for academic journals. The
process of submitting these, having to undergo a peer-review and revising my
work in line with the editor’s comments, has also, I think, helped me develop
as a researcher. The University itself has supported my efforts in this too. There’s
an excellent seminar on ‘Academic Publishing: Editing and Peer Review’, as well
as a Critical Writing for PhD students course.
Finally, I’ve been very fortunate
to have been offered the opportunity to present at the 24-hour
Inspire lecture taking place this month. During this event I’ll be sharing
my passion (pun-intended) for Mills & Boons – at 8 o’clock in the morning! I
even get to do some baking, as cakes and snacks will be sold at the event
alongside my own authorial endeavours, which proceeds from this also going to
charity.
The opportunities available for
doctoral students within the University continue to amaze me. There are so many
ways in which postgrad researchers can find ways to develop themselves. I try
and make the most of everything that comes my way.
Val Derbyshire, PhD student (School of English)
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