Roads Traveled As A PhD Student

Suppose you're heading into qualifying exams, aka portfolio defense or a written summarization of what you've learned. In that case, you're probably juggling notes, deadlines, working, etc., and a general sense that there’s always something else to do.

One simple thing that can make the whole process feel lighter is putting together your doctoral portfolio site early. Instead of thinking of it as another task, think of it as a space to anchor everything you've built so far. Think in terms of a place where you can see the accomplishments and progression you have made on a long and sometimes exhausting road.

Here are a couple of things that I did along the way. Start with your CV. Getting it out of your head, multiple versions of your resume, yes, online and up to date, gives you a quick snapshot of how far you’ve come, your coursework, research experience, teaching, service, and all those small achievements that tend to get buried in multiple folders. Seeing it laid out in one place is a quiet confidence boost full of 'aha' moments!

Next, write a short Professional Overview. Keep it genuine, not stiff. Share what drives your work, the questions you care about, and the direction you see yourself going. It’s a chance to sound like you, not a template or what others think you should say.

In the end, your portfolio isn’t about perfection. It’s about perspective. When the pressure of quals ramps up, it’s a reminder that you’ve done the work, you have the skills, and you’re far more prepared than you think.