how to thank your phd advisor

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Guide: How to Say Thank You to Your PhD Supervisor

Completing a doctoral degree is an incredible achievement, and your PhD supervisor has played a crucial role in guiding you through this challenging journey. Expressing your gratitude towards your supervisor is not only polite but also helps nurture a long-lasting professional relationship. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say thank you to your PhD supervisor, both formally and informally. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Formal Ways to Say Thank You

Sending a formal thank you message or letter to your PhD supervisor is a thoughtful gesture that shows your gratitude for their guidance and support. Here are some tips for writing a formal thank you:

• Be sincere: Start by expressing your genuine appreciation for their help and insights during your doctoral journey.
• Highlight specific contributions: Mention the specific ways your supervisor aided your research, whether it was through funding, advice, or reviewing your work.
• Mention personal growth: Reflect upon how their mentorship has contributed to your personal growth as a researcher and professional in your field.
• Show gratitude for their time and effort: Acknowledge the countless hours spent providing feedback, attending meetings, and supporting your research.
• Offer to stay in touch: Convey your interest in maintaining a professional relationship and using their continued guidance in the future.

Example of a formal thank you email:

Dear [Supervisor’s Name], I am writing to express my sincerest gratitude for your invaluable guidance and unwavering support throughout my doctoral journey. Your expertise and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping my research and helping me achieve this significant milestone. I greatly appreciate the time and effort you devoted to providing constructive feedback on my work, attending numerous meetings, and offering invaluable insights that significantly enhanced the quality of my research. Not only have you fostered my academic growth, but your guidance has also influenced my personal development as a researcher. Your dedication to nurturing young scholars like myself is truly inspiring. I would love to stay connected and continue learning from your expertise in the future, as I believe your mentorship will be invaluable as I embark on the next phase of my career. Again, thank you for your exceptional guidance and support throughout. It has been an honor to be your student. Wishing you good health and continued success. Warm regards, [Your Name]

Informal Ways to Say Thank You

While formal messages are appreciated, expressing your gratitude in an informal manner can create a more personal connection with your PhD supervisor. Here are some tips for conveying your thanks in a less formal manner:

• Engage in a face-to-face conversation: Arrange a meeting with your supervisor to express your gratitude in person. This can be an opportunity for a heartfelt conversation.
• Express genuine emotions: Be authentic and express how grateful you are for their guidance and mentorship. Share anecdotes or specific moments that made a significant impact on your research journey.
• Offer a personal token of appreciation: Consider small gestures like a handwritten note, a meaningful book, or a personalized gift that reflects your supervisor’s interests or hobbies.
• Invite them to celebratory events: If appropriate, extend an invitation to any graduation ceremony or other events that mark the completion of your doctoral degree.

Example of an informal thank you conversation:

[Student]: Hey, [Supervisor’s Name]! I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for everything you’ve done throughout my PhD journey. Your guidance and support have made a tremendous difference, and I cannot thank you enough. [Supervisor]: Thank you, [Your Name]. It’s been a pleasure mentoring you. Is there anything specific that you found particularly helpful? [Student]: Definitely! I truly appreciate the valuable feedback you provided during our weekly meetings. Your insights and expertise always pushed me to think outside the box, resulting in a research project that I am incredibly proud of. [Supervisor]: I’m glad to hear that. It was a pleasure working with you, and your dedication to your research made a significant impact. I have no doubt that you will achieve great things in your future endeavors. [Student]: Thank you for believing in me and for your continuous support. Your mentorship has not only shaped my academic journey but also inspired me to become a better researcher. I am forever grateful. [Supervisor]: You’re most welcome, [Your Name]. It’s been a pleasure being your supervisor. Remember, I’m here to support you even after you complete your PhD. Let’s keep in touch and continue this professional relationship. [Student]: Absolutely! I would love to stay connected. Thanks again, [Supervisor’s Name]. You’re the best!

Final Thoughts

Expressing your gratitude towards your PhD supervisor is essential in recognizing their efforts and maintaining a positive professional relationship. Whether you choose a formal written message or an informal heartfelt conversation, remember to be sincere, specific, and appreciative of their time and guidance. Your kind words and gratitude will undoubtedly be cherished by your supervisor for years to come.

Remember, completing a PhD is just the beginning of your journey, and your PhD supervisor’s mentorship can prove invaluable as you navigate future academic or professional milestones. So, take a moment to say thank you in a way that resonates with you and, most importantly, makes your supervisor feel appreciated.

Related Guides:

• Guide: How to Say No to a PhD Supervisor
• Guide: How to Say Congratulations for PhD
• How to Say PhD in Italian
• How to Say PhD in Japanese: Formal and Informal Ways, Tips, and Examples
• Guide on How to Say PhD in Korean
• How to Say PhD in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide
• Guide to Saying “PhD Student” in Korean
• Guide: How to Say Someone has a PhD

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Lucy Miranda

Academia Bees

Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis (5 Samples and Guide)

January 12, 2024

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By Mohsin Khurshid

Embarking on your PhD journey? Unveil the art of crafting sincere acknowledgments with our guide. Explore 5 curated samples to master the skill of expressing gratitude in your PhD thesis. From mentors to contributors, discover the perfect tone for your acknowledgment section. Stick around for a comprehensive guide on crafting your own.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 PhD Acknowledgement Sample
• 1.2 PhD Thesis Acknowledgement Sample
• 1.3 PhD Dissertation Acknowledgement (Long Sample)
• 1.4 Acknowledgement PhD Thesis (Short Sample)
• 1.5 Sample Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis File
• 2 How to Write Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis?
• 3 Conclusion

Best Five PhD Thesis Acknowledgement Samples

Curious about exemplary PhD thesis acknowledgments? Dive into our handpicked collection of 5 samples. Each one offers a unique perspective, providing inspiration for expressing your gratitude in your dissertation. From mentor appreciation to acknowledging contributors, these samples serve as valuable templates for your own heartfelt acknowledgments.

PhD Acknowledgement Sample

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my esteemed supervisors, Prof. XXX and Dr. XXX, whose unwavering guidance, continuous support, and boundless patience have been the cornerstones of my PhD journey. Their wealth of knowledge and extensive experience has not only enriched my academic endeavors but has also been a source of inspiration in my daily life.

Special thanks to Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for their technical expertise, contributing significantly to the success of my study. The members of XXX have played a pivotal role in making my academic experience and life in the UK truly wonderful through their generous help and support.

Finally, I express deep appreciation to my parents, my wife, and my children, whose understanding and encouragement have been indispensable. Without their unwavering support, completing my study would have been an insurmountable challenge.

PhD Thesis Acknowledgement Sample

My sincere appreciation goes to my esteemed supervisor, Dr. XXX, whose invaluable supervision, unwavering support, and expert guidance have been instrumental throughout my pursuit of a PhD degree. I extend gratitude to the Faculty of XXX for providing the funding opportunity that allowed me to undertake my studies at the esteemed Department of XXX, University of XXX.

Dr. XXX deserves special acknowledgment for her influential support, significantly shaping my experimental methods and offering insightful critiques of my results. I also express my thanks to Dr. XXX, Dr. XXX, and Dr. XXX for their mentorship, which has greatly contributed to my academic growth.

Heartfelt thanks to my friends, lab mates, colleagues, and the research team – XXX, XXX, XXX, XXX – for the cherished time spent together in the lab and social settings. I am deeply thankful to my family and friends for their unwavering encouragement and support throughout my academic journey.

PhD Dissertation Acknowledgement (Long Sample)

I extend my sincere gratitude to my esteemed advisor, Prof. _______, whose unwavering support, patience, motivation, and profound knowledge have been instrumental throughout my Ph.D. study and related research. His guidance has been a beacon, shaping my research endeavors and enriching the writing of this thesis. I am immensely grateful for the privilege of having such a dedicated advisor and mentor.

In addition to my advisor, I express my heartfelt thanks to the members of my thesis committee: Prof. __________, Prof. ___________, and Dr. ____________. Their insightful comments, encouragement, and challenging questions spurred me to broaden my research perspectives.

Special appreciation is due to Dr. _________, Dr. ______________, and Dr. __________ for providing me the opportunity to intern with their team and granting access to invaluable laboratory resources. Without their precious support, the successful conduct of this research would not have been possible.

I am indebted to my fellow labmates for their stimulating discussions, the collaborative efforts during sleepless nights leading up to deadlines, and the camaraderie that enriched the past four years. Gratitude extends to my friends at __________________________ for their companionship, with a special acknowledgment to Dr. Chen Fan for offering a first glimpse into the world of research.

Last but certainly not least, heartfelt thanks go to my family—my parents, brothers, and sister—for their unwavering spiritual support throughout the thesis writing process and in all aspects of my life.

Acknowledgement PhD Thesis (Short Sample)

I extend my deepest appreciation to my advisor, Prof. _______, for being a guiding light throughout my Ph.D. journey. His unwavering support, patience, and immense knowledge have been indispensable. My heartfelt thanks go to the members of my thesis committee—Prof. __________, Prof. ___________, and Dr. ____________—for their valuable insights and encouragement.

Special gratitude is reserved for Dr. _________, Dr. ______________, and Dr. __________ for their support during my internship and providing access to vital research facilities. I am grateful to my labmates for their camaraderie and shared dedication, and to my friends at __________________________ for their constant support.

Last but not least, my family—parents, brothers, and sister—deserve profound thanks for their unwavering encouragement and spiritual support throughout this academic pursuit.

Sample Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis File

In presenting this PhD thesis, I express my sincere gratitude to Prof. _______, my dedicated advisor, for his invaluable guidance. My appreciation extends to the members of my thesis committee—Prof. __________, Prof. ___________, and Dr. ____________—for their constructive comments and motivation.

Thanks to Dr. _________, Dr. ______________, and Dr. __________ for providing a rewarding internship experience and access to essential research resources. To my labmates and friends at __________________________, your collaboration and support have been cherished.

Lastly, heartfelt thanks to my family—parents, brothers, and sister—for their enduring encouragement and unwavering belief in my academic journey. This thesis file stands as a culmination of collective support and collaborative effort.

How to Write Acknowledgement for PhD Thesis?

Writing the acknowledgment section for your PhD thesis is an essential expression of gratitude towards those who played a significant role in your academic journey. Follow these guidelines to craft a meaningful and well-structured acknowledgment:

1. Identify Key Contributors:

• Acknowledge your primary advisor and thesis committee members first.
• Recognize mentors, colleagues, and institutions that provided support.

2. Be Specific and Personal:

• Mention individuals by name and specify their contributions.
• Share personal anecdotes or experiences to make the acknowledgment genuine.

3. Use Gracious Language:

• Employ a positive and appreciative tone throughout the acknowledgment.
• Express gratitude for the specific ways each individual or institution contributed.

4. Order of Mention:

• Typically, advisors and committee members are acknowledged first, followed by other contributors.
• Consider grouping individuals by their role or contribution.

5. Include Professional Courtesy:

• Follow any specific guidelines or formalities suggested by your institution.
• If acknowledging professionals or organizations, maintain a respectful and professional tone.

6. Avoid Overuse of Formal Language:

• Keep the language clear, concise, and heartfelt.
• Strike a balance between formality and a personal touch.

7. Consider Length and Relevance:

• Keep the acknowledgment section concise, focusing on individuals or entities directly related to your thesis .
• Ensure that all acknowledgments are relevant to the academic context.

8. Express Gratitude to Loved Ones:

• Don’t forget to express heartfelt thanks to family and friends who provided emotional support.

“I extend my deepest appreciation to my primary advisor, Prof. _______, for their unwavering guidance. Special thanks to my committee members—Prof. __________ and Dr. __________—for their insightful comments. Gratitude to Dr. _________ and Dr. ______________ for their valuable contributions during my internship. I am also indebted to my labmates, friends at __________________________, and my family for their enduring support. Crafting this acknowledgment allows me to express my profound gratitude to each contributor, without whom this PhD thesis would not have been possible.”

Remember, the acknowledgment is a personal expression of gratitude, so tailor it to reflect your genuine appreciation for the support received during your PhD journey.

In wrapping up, these acknowledgments weave a story of collective support that fueled the success of your PhD thesis. Each thanked individual, from advisors to family, played a vital role in your academic journey. Beyond mere formalities, this acknowledgment is a tribute to shared dedication and encouragement. As you step into the next phase of your academic or professional pursuits, carry with you the echoes of gratitude and collaboration. Here’s to the collaborative spirit that turned challenges into triumphs and the connections that made your thesis journey remarkable.

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Trapped in dissertation revisions?

Writing a thank you note to dissertation committee members, published by steve tippins on june 25, 2020 june 25, 2020.

Last Updated on: 2nd February 2024, 02:37 am

As much as your dissertation may have been a battle, and as much as members of your committee may have seemed unreasonable at times, their ultimate goal was to help you be a better researcher and finish your degree. They were your allies. So when you do finish, a strong thank you is important.

You may even dislike members of your committee, but remember that after you finish your dissertation , your committee members don’t just disappear. You will be working in a related field to them and having a good relationship with them may be important for your career later on. For example…

• You may need a recommendation from them
• They may be able to introduce you to potential data sources for research
• They may know people that ask them about you
• You may do joint research with some of them in the future

Or, maybe you’ve received a ton of support from your committee members and feel nothing but gratitude for how they’ve guided you. In that case, all the more reason to express your gratitude!

Either way, an academic field is a small world. Maintaining good relationships with members of the field is important for your career. And saying “thank you” is just good manners, after all.

Here’s how to write a thank-you note to dissertation committee members who’ve helped you along the way.

Thank Them in the Acknowledgments Section

It’s important to include a thank you note for your dissertation committee members in the acknowledgments section of your dissertation . It doesn’t have to be very long–one or two sentences is enough. It’s vital to do this because it’s expected, and not doing so may seem like an intentional snub. 

Thank Your Committee Members Personally

It’s also kind to thank your committee members personally as well. Even the person who’s been hardest on you has helped you get to where you are. A personal thank-you often feels more genuine, personal, and real than what can be communicated by written words. Even if it’s as simple as looking them in the eye, shaking their hand, and saying “thank you for everything,” it matters.

Write a Thank You Note for Dissertation Committee Members

Even if you’ve already done everything above, it’s best to write a separate thank you note for your dissertation committee members as well. There are a couple of reasons to send an additional thank you note. First, they may never look at the acknowledgments section of your dissertation. And secondly, it shows that you went just a little above and beyond. 

With handwriting being what it is today, I’d say it’s acceptable to write it on a computer. Print it out, sign it, and deliver it (slide it under their door, put it in their mailbox, mail it to them).

Tips for Writing a Thank You Note for Your Dissertation Committee 

Be specific. Show them that you paid attention by thanking them for the specific roles that they played and the specific ways that they helped you get to the end. Saying something like, “thank you for being on my committee, without you I would have had to have somebody else on my committee,” isn’t going to endear you to them.

Address them properly. Even though you’re technically a doctor now too, still say, “Thank you Dr. ___” Unless they’ve explicitly asked you to call them by their first name, default to calling them “doctor” until they tell you otherwise.

Be genuine. It’s important not to have your letter sound like a form letter. While it should still be professional, it shouldn’t be sanitized of any personal touch. If you have funny memories of your time working with them, it would be appropriate to recount these with a tone of appreciation.

Example Thank You Note for Dissertation Committee 

Dear Dr. ___,

Saying thank you just doesn’t seem to be enough now that you’ve helped me complete this journey. You were an integral part of me being able to make it to the end.

Without the help that you gave me in developing my methodology and the emotional support you gave me, I wouldn’t have made it.

I hope that I can “pay forward” what you’ve done for me by helping other people. I will use your selfless support as a model as I move forward.

Best wishes,

Dear Dr. ____

I’m writing to offer my deepest gratitude for the guidance you provided me as part of my dissertation committee.  From the time I took your History of Education in the Progressive Era course, I knew you would be the one to help me sort out my thinking on my topic.  Your suggestions brought in threads of thought that made my research so much richer, and my dissertation something I can be proud of having written.  You’ve also inspired me with your own body of research and the gift of helping me visualize a similar trajectory for myself.  I feel confident that I can succeed, standing on your shoulders.

I look forward to working with you again in the future, as our research interests will undoubtedly invite future collaboration.  No doubt, we’ll be at the same conferences year after year!  May you continue to inspire and enrich your students.  I will miss being among them!

With Deepest Gratitude, Me

Final Thoughts

Now that you have your degree and are moving into the world of an academic career, you will be met with a host of new challenges. If you’re looking for someone who knows the territory, feel free to take a look at my Academic Career Coaching services and reach out for a free 30-minute consultation .

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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• Acknowledgements for PhD Thesis and Dissertations – Explained
• Doing a PhD

The Purpose of Acknowledgements

The acknowledgement section of a thesis or dissertation is where you recognise and thank those who supported you during your PhD. This can be but is not limited to individuals, institutions or organisations.

Although your acknowledgements will not be used to evaluate your work, it is still an important section of your thesis. This is because it can have a positive (or negative for that matter) influence the perception of your reader before they even reach the main body of your work.

Who Should I Acknowledge?

Acknowledgements for a PhD thesis will typically fall into one of two categories – professional or personal.

Within these categories, who you thank will ultimately be your decision. However, it’s imperative that you pay special attention to the ‘professional’ group. This is because not thanking someone who has played an important role in your studies, whether it be intentional or accidental, will more often than not be seen as a dismissal of their efforts. Not only would this be unfair if they genuinely helped you, but from a certain political aspect, it could also jeopardise any opportunities for future collaborations .

Professional Acknowledgements

This may include, but is not limited to:

• Funding bodies/sponsorship providers
• Supervisors
• Research group and lab assistants
• Research participants
• Proofreaders

Personal Acknowledgements

• Key family members and friends
• Individuals who inspired you or directly influenced your academic journey
• Anyone else who has provided personal support that you would like to mention

It should be noted that certain universities have policies which state only those who have directly supported your work, such as supervisors and professors, should be included in your acknowledgements. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you read your university guidelines before writing this section of your thesis.

How to Write Acknowledgements for PhD Thesis

When producing this section, your writing style can be more informal compared to the rest of your thesis. This includes writing in first person and using more emotive language. Although in most cases you will have complete freedom in how you write this section of your thesis, it is still highly advisable to keep it professional. As mentioned earlier, this is largely because it will be one of the first things your assessors will read, and so it will help set the tone for the rest of your work.

In terms of its structure, acknowledgements are expected to be ordered in a manner that first recognises the most formal support before moving onto the less formal support. In most cases, this follows the same order that we have outlined in the ‘Who Should I Thank’ section.

When thanking professionals, always write out their full name and provide their title. This is because although you may be on a first-name basis with them, those who read your thesis will not. By providing full names and titles, not only do you help ensure clarity, but it could also indirectly contribute to the credibility of your thesis should the individual you’re thanking be well known within your field.

If you intend to include a list of people from one institution or organisation, it is best to list their names in alphabetical order. The exception to this is when a particular individual has been of significant assistance; here, it would be advisable to list them.

How Long Should My Acknowledgements Be?

Acknowledgements vary considerably in length. Some are a single paragraph whilst some continue for up to three pages. The length of your acknowledgement page will mostly depend on the number of individuals you want to recognise.

As a general rule, try to keep your acknowledgements section to a single page. Although there are no word limits, creating a lengthy acknowledgements section dilutes the gratitude you’re trying to express, especially to those who have supported you the most.

Where Should My Acknowledgements Go?

In the vast majority of cases, your acknowledgements should appear directly after your abstract and before your table of contents.

However, we highly advise you to check your university guidelines as a few universities set out their own specific order which they will expect you to follow.

Phrases to Help You Get Started

We appreciate how difficult it can be to truly show how grateful you are to those who have supported you over the years, especially in words.

To help you get started, we’ve provided you with a few examples of sentences that you can complete or draw ideas from.

• I am deeply grateful to XXX…
• I would like to express my sincere gratitude to XXX…
• I would like to offer my special thanks to XXX…
• I would like to extend my sincere thanks to XXX…
• …for their assistance at every stage of the research project.
• …for their insightful comments and suggestions.
• …for their contribution to XXX.
• …for their unwavering support and belief in me.

Thesis Acknowledgement Examples

Below are three PhD thesis acknowledgment samples from which you can draw inspiration. It should be noted that the following have been extracted from theses which are freely available in the public domain. Irrespective of this, references to any individual, department or university have been removed for the sake of privacy.

First and foremost I am extremely grateful to my supervisors, Prof. XXX and Dr. XXX for their invaluable advice, continuous support, and patience during my PhD study. Their immense knowledge and plentiful experience have encouraged me in all the time of my academic research and daily life. I would also like to thank Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for their technical support on my study. I would like to thank all the members in the XXX. It is their kind help and support that have made my study and life in the UK a wonderful time. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to my parents, my wife and my children. Without their tremendous understanding and encouragement in the past few years, it would be impossible for me to complete my study.

I would like to thank my supervisors Dr. XXX and Dr. XXX for all their help and advice with this PhD. I would also like to thank my sisters, whom without this would have not been possible. I also appreciate all the support I received from the rest of my family. Lastly, I would like to thank the XXX for the studentship that allowed me to conduct this thesis.

I would like to thank my esteemed supervisor – Dr. XXX for his invaluable supervision, support and tutelage during the course of my PhD degree. My gratitude extends to the Faculty of XXX for the funding opportunity to undertake my studies at the Department of XXX, University of XXX. Additionally, I would like to express gratitude to Dr. XXX for her treasured support which was really influential in shaping my experiment methods and critiquing my results. I also thank Dr. XXX, Dr. XXX, Dr. XXX for their mentorship. I would like to thank my friends, lab mates, colleagues and research team – XXX, XXX, XXX, XXX for a cherished time spent together in the lab, and in social settings. My appreciation also goes out to my family and friends for their encouragement and support all through my studies.

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How do I email my supervisor? Part two – the thank you note.

The questions might be naive, but I do want to learn more about the “Australian” way of sending regards to supervisors. My supervisor invited me to a formal business dinner this week with some other professors. As a PhD student who just started research, I felt thrilled about this occasion. He will be on his sabbatical leave soon and we will continue to contact via email, once a month. From the culture of my own country, I should send my supervisor an email containing all the following items. However, I am also thinking about the concerns listed in the brackets. I am not sure whether such a personal email is too far for this more professional supervisor-student relationship in Australia. Thanks again for the dinner. (I have already expressed my gratitude orally and in a previous email. Will this be tedious?) Thanks for all his guidance and caring for the past several months. (But it sounds like a concluding remark, which might not be proper at this time.) Have a safe journey. (A must-say in my hometown. But I was told it was considered odd, or even rude by some Americans. The main reason for this email.) Enjoy the sabbatical leave. (Enjoy?) I will work hard during this period. (Another must-say. But I have never heard students promise this in western countries.) I am struggling between my rational brain and emotional brain, as well as two different cultures. Looking forward to hearing from you. Warm regards, Courteous Student

Here is what I wrote back:

Dear Courteous,

Inter-cultural communication is, indeed, delicate work. Add to that the stress of playing the role of ‘junior’ colleague in academia… let’s just say, it’s challenging. Even students raised in the same culture as their supervisor can struggle with this kind of communication task, which is why it is an excellent topic for a blog post!

When we write a letter, we are playing a role. Think about a letter you would write to a friend while you are on holiday vs a letter you would write to a politician, complaining about Australia’s refugee policy. Want to sound happy and affectionate to your friend and angry and persuasive to the politician. You are a different person when you write each letter. You play the role through your choice of greeting, the words you use, expressive punctuation and so on. For instance, you would not sign off an angry letter to a politician with “with love”; the recipient of your letter will feel very weird, and you will have failed to communicate.

Unlike other parts of formal education, you do not have a ‘social ritual’ that will guide you in everyday interactions with your supervisor; the relationship will emerge and develop over time. Each supervisor / PhD student relationship is unique. I have a very different kind of relationship with every PhD student I supervise, even though I like to think I approach everyone the same way. When the communication is electronic, the interaction problem is magnified because you don’t have live feedback from the person to judge and adjust your performance. Too casual? Too formal? It’s tough to find the right tone, especially at the beginning of your working relationship.

The ‘meta’ problem here is that you do not have a well-defined role to play. Are you a student? A junior colleague? A friend? You can be all three at the same time, or just one, depending on how the relationship between yourself and your supervisor evolves. Even if you do get to the ‘friends’ end of the spectrum, there will still be a power relationship that is unequal; at least until you graduate and in all likelihood, beyond. Recently I met my delightful and supportive masters supervisor at a social event, completely by chance. I studied with her 18 years ago now (!). Back then we were in almost daily contact, even though now we speak but rarely. We certainly became friends, after a fashion. But I still feel like a junior colleague when I talk to her. She’s the most unthreatening, lovely person you can imagine, so this wasn’t from anything she did at the time, or since.

It’s tricky, so let’s tackle it one letter at a time. Here’s what I would write, based on your list of what you want to express. My explanation for every sentence is in square brackets. Reading these notes gives you a sense of how difficult it can be to negotiate the supervisor/student power relations, even in a very everyday piece of correspondence:

Dear [whatever you call him/her – in Australia, most supervisors are more comfortable with first names from PhD students]

I hope you enjoy your sabbatical [‘enjoy’ is an entirely appropriate here – us academics are nerdy and a sabbatical is a dream come true!] . I appreciate all your guidance and care over the last couple of months [keep emotional stuff short and to the point, but don’t forget to include it. If you’ve already thanked by email for the dinner, don’t do it again because in Australia this will feel overbearing. We are not good with gratitude. Maybe it’s a convict thing?] . I plan to work on [insert something general, but specific here like your upcoming milestone presentation. Being specific shows your supervisor that you are confident and have things under control and that you have listened to their advice] over the next couple of months. I’m looking forward to our emails/touching base [this sentence confirms your agreement about communication over the next little while, so he/she knows you understand. The second mode of expression ‘touching base’ is more casual, depends on whether you feel your relationship is moving in that direction or not]  every two weeks. Do let me know if you need to change this arrangement for any reason [indicates you are flexible and understand the nature of his/her leave – gives them something to thank you for, an important ingredient of this sort of communication. In English, saying thanks demands another thanks and sometimes it’s hard to know how to stop the cycle. One reason why emojis are so useful in text messaging!] . Safe travels! [this is a casual way of wishing someone all the best on a journey – not offensive and entirely appropriate. you can choose whether you use the exclamation mark – makes it sound more ‘jaunty’ if you do, thus decreasing the emotional content].

[your usual sign off … mine is ‘best’ if I don’t know a person that well or just my initial in lower case: “i”, if they are a colleague-friend ]

Have you ever struggled to find the right ‘tone’ to email your supervisor? What were you trying to say? Did you manage to communicate well, or not? Love to hear your stories in the comments – from your issues, more blog posts might come!

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Five ways to avoid death by email

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The Thesis Whisperer is written by Professor Inger Mewburn, director of researcher development at The Australian National University . New posts on the first Wednesday of the month. Subscribe by email below. Visit the About page to find out more about me, my podcasts and books. I'm on most social media platforms as @thesiswhisperer. The best places to talk to me are LinkedIn , Mastodon and Threads.

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Sample emails to your dissertation supervisor

Published on October 13, 2015 by Sarah Vinz . Revised on March 24, 2017.

Table of contents

Making an appointment, asking questions, confirming agreements.

Dear Dr. Janssen,

The college has informed me that you will be my supervisor. I would therefore like to make an initial appointment to discuss my dissertation idea with you.

I look forward to hearing from you as to when you would be available to meet with me.

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Dear Prof. Smith,

I have encountered several difficulties while working on my dissertation. Could you please answer the following questions?

• I have found only limited literature on the concept of “social enforcement.” Are you familiar with any authors who have written on this topic?
• Measuring “social enforcement” in the literature has proven virtually impossible. At this point I would like to use “social control” as a starting point for the concept. What are your thoughts on this?

I would like to make an appointment to discuss these questions with you. When would be convenient for you?

I am writing in follow-up to our meeting on Monday. Could you please check the notes I have prepared concerning what we agreed and confirm that they are accurate?

Thanks in advance for your response.

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Sarah's academic background includes a Master of Arts in English, a Master of International Affairs degree, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She loves the challenge of finding the perfect formulation or wording and derives much satisfaction from helping students take their academic writing up a notch.

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5 inspiring PhD thesis acknowledgement examples

Crafting a PhD thesis acknowledgement can be a challenging task, but it can also be an enjoyable one. There are no strict rules or guidelines to follow, allowing for creative freedom. However, seeking inspiration from sample acknowledgements can greatly assist in initiating your own writing process. Here are five PhD thesis acknowledgement examples!

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 1

First and foremost, I would like to thank my PhD supervisors, Prof. Xiu Ling and Prof. Frederic Semoas. Their constant support, guidance, and encouragement have been invaluable throughout the entire process. From the initial stages of refining my research proposal to the final submission of my thesis, their unwavering presence and wealth of wisdom have been instrumental in shaping my academic growth. I highly valued the biweekly meetings we held, which not only served as crucial checkpoints to keep me on track academically, but also provided me with plenty of encouragement. I am profoundly grateful for the immeasurable contributions they made to my development.

Among the most memorable highlights of my PhD journey was the opportunity to participate in the Applied Chemistry Summer School in Belfast. This enriching experience would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of Dr. Simone and Dr. Erek. I am deeply grateful for the knowledge, connections, and friendships that were forged during that time.

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 2

It takes a village to raise a child” is a well-known proverb, and I strongly believe that completing a PhD also requires the support of a village. Therefore, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the people who played significant roles in my PhD journey.

Furthermore, I want to thank all the interviewees who generously shared their thoughts and life stories for my research. Without your willingness to participate, my thesis would not have been possible.

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 3

When I embarked on my PhD journey five years ago, little did I know the profound experiences that lay ahead. Fulfilling my long-held dream of pursuing a PhD, time seemed to pass swiftly as I immersed myself in the world of academia. Transitioning from several years in professional practice back to the university environment was both daunting and exhilarating.

During my third and fourth years, I had the privilege of working as a teaching assistant for Prof. Susan Meyers. This role introduced me to the immensely fulfilling world of teaching, from which I gained invaluable knowledge and insights. Prof. Meyers provided exceptional guidance and unwavering support throughout my teaching endeavors.

My greatest aspiration is that my research proves beneficial and contributes to a better understanding of earthquakes. The drive to advance knowledge in this field continues to fuel my motivation and determination. I am deeply grateful to all the individuals mentioned, as none of this would have been possible without their guidance and encouragement. I am excited to see what the future holds.

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 4

Throughout my PhD journey, I have been fortunate to explore various places and experiences. Moving to Chicago, I had the privilege of joining an exceptional literature department, surrounded by individuals who share a deep passion for reading. Relocating to a new city on my own was challenging, but fate led me to forge a wonderful friendship with my flat mate, Loreen. Loreen, I am grateful for your companionship and support from the very beginning of my PhD.

Participating in a three-minute research pitch competition not only pushed me beyond my comfort zone but also introduced me to an incredible partner, Joshua. It is remarkable how life leads us to unexpected places and introduces us to remarkable people when we least expect it.

Grandma and Grandpa, you made immense sacrifices and worked tirelessly to provide a better life for your children and grandchildren. Look how far we have come! Your dedication and resilience continue to inspire me as I reflect on my achievements.

PhD thesis acknowledgement example 5

To Katie, Felicitas, Aron, Xime, and Andy – you are the best PhD crew in the entire department. Together, we have navigated the challenges and celebrated the triumphs, and I am grateful to have had you by my side.

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How to express your appreciation to advisor

Background story : Im a PhD student in CS. In my area conferences are more prominent than journal because the area advances quickly. So we are mostly targeting and submitting papers to conferences. Whenever there is a deadline of main conferences my advisor(40-something, M, tenured) is working on multiple papers because he has several PhD students.

Main story : Last week there were two deadlines. Total 5 papers were submitted to these two. From last weekend my advisor worked so hard, revising our writing, sending many emails and callings us to figure out what we meant in writing and how we did in our experiments.

While seeing this process, I don’t know how much I thank him.. Frankly, I think my idea is not GREAT, but he still put his time and effort trying to be accepted. He’s tenured so if he ditches my paper I cannot do anything. But he is showing a lot of support. I don’t know how to give/show him back these appreciation. These feelings have been started quite awhile. In our individual weekly research meeting we discuss ideas... I feel the same about it so I always say thank you when I leave his office.

I wanna ask other PhD fellas How do you handle these grateful feelings, how do you express them to advisor? or don’t express?

Wayne State University

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Thank an Advisor

We know the difference an academic advisor can make in a student's academic journey.  They play a major role in helping students navigate the world of higher education, can be critical problem solvers for a variety of issues, and often provide that much needed dose of encouragement to get students through a program, a semester, or even just the week! 

If an advisor has made a difference in your educational journey, why not thank them? The "Thank an Advisor" program allows you to express your gratitude in writing to your advisor. You can remain anonymous (to the recipient) or include your name.

Notes will be briefly screened and then sent to the advisor at the beginning of each month. Excerpts from your note may appear on our "Thank an Advisor" webpage for inspiration as well as narrative "evidence" of both the impact and outcomes of academic advising at Wayne State University.

Thank an Advisor Excerpts

Faith Doyle, Dept. of Communication Sciences & Disorders  "Thank you Faith for being such a wonderful helping hand in my journey of education. I truly appreciate your hard work and passion in making sure I was able to stay on track, answering any questions I've had and assisting me with anything that I've needed! We need more people like you in this world you've been nothing short of amazing! Thank you again!" Kurt Troutman, Dept. of Kinesiology  "Thank you so much for all of your help and advice. You made planning my coursework stress-free, and I wouldn't be as far ahead in my program as I am without you. I appreciate you!" Kevin Papuga, Dept. of Business Administration Student Services "Kevin is the realest. I've met a lot of advisors here at this school, and all of them have been great. Kevin is just another one to be thankful for. You bring a lot of personal experience that helps me get a better understanding of what I'm trying to achieve in my life. Thank you!" Gayle McCreedy, Dept. of History "Thanks Gayle- having you as an advisor has just been wonderful. I just don't know how I would have successfully navigated the past 3 years without your help & expertise. Thank you also for always providing a non-judgemental environment. I understand that that's probably part of your training and you're expected to, but it's always made a difference, and you're really good at it. You more than deserve a thank you." Casey Rue, College of Engineering "Dear Mr. Rue, thank you for your encouragement during the most difficult times. Your advice and care helped ease my worries and helped me make better choices. Thank you very much for caring!" Heather Laskos, Dept. of Business Administration Student Services "Thank you Heather!! I just spoke with you about my last semester and I am finally starting to feel excited about graduating! Appreciate you!" Arnelle Douglas, Pre-med and Health Science Center "Thank you, Arnelle! You are such a great advisor. You always answer all of my questions with an open heart. I always feel that I am ahead because you always tell me the next steps I need to take and how to prepare for them. Again, thank you so much!" Stacie Moser, Dept. of Sociology "I just wanted to share my gratitude for the help you have given me. I feel that I would honestly be in such a hodgepodge position if it was not for your coordination and meticulous care for my education and path to graduation. You have helped me in many ways and I am glad that you are someone who I find reputable and well-established. Please keep doing what you are doing for me and for everyone else you assist! Thank you!" Lawrence Robinson, School of Social Work "Lawrence does a great job at connecting students with classes they actually want to take, helping them reach their passions, and helping them network, all while cheerleading them on through the program! I am very grateful for the help he has provided throughout my MSW experience! You can tell he cares about the students at Wayne State and I appreciate that!" Bianca Fielder,  Dept. of Business Administration Student Services "Dear Bianca, I am so lucky to have you as my advisor, and you give me a lot of help. A thousand words can't express my gratitude to you. I really really appreciate you!" Kimberly Hunter, Dept. of Biological Sciences "Thank you so much for being an incredible advisor and an incredible listener. You constantly help me put things into perspective and prepare me for great things in the future. Thank you!" Laura Hetzler, Pre-med and Health Science Center "I greatly appreciated your help with finding useful campus resources that I have been able to utilize. Also, I miss your class very much and it will always be the icon of my first semester at Wayne State." Corinne Forys, Dept. of Psychology "Corinne, thank you so much for your dedication to helping students. You are always kind and very informative when it comes to helping me decide on what my next step is when it comes to registering for classes or if I have any questions in general. I hope every student you help realizes how much you truly care and how far you are willing to go to for your students. Even during the pandemic, when meetings were online or over email or zoom, you were very detailed when it came to responding. Thank you so much, I couldn't have come this far without you." Shawntae Harris-Mintline, College of Education "Thank you so much for all that you have done to help me throughout my time here at Wayne. You are one of the most patient and kindest people that I have met." Helen Wilson, Pre-med and Health Science Center "Thank you Helen for all that you do for us pre-optometry students! Always answering my questions right away especially when I have a million emails. You are always really positive and we are lucky to have you as our pre-optometry advisor."

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Supervisor Quickie: the Post-It Feedback Method

Have you ever spent hours providing feedback over a colleague’s (or a student’s) paper? And have you ever found afterwards that many of your carefully-crafted, thoughtful comments had been ignored? In this “quickie” post for supervisors (or for anyone giving internal feedback), I share a small trick that I use lately to avoid these situations… and get better outcomes for everyone involved.

Dripping with red ink

I remember the first time I read this PhD comics strip. I had just received one of my early paper drafts back from my supervisors. When I’d sent it to them, I thought it was almost ready for submission. Yet, there they were, several dozen comments in red ink over the paper printout.

At the time, I had felt down and discouraged, but at least the comic strip helped me understand that I was not alone. What happened next? I don’t really remember, but here’s my best guess: I went through most of the comments (especially, the easy ones), and tried to solve them in the quickest way possible. It was just too much emotional and cognitive pain to redo the text that I had so effortfully crafted. Some of the comments, I’m sure, I never addressed (maybe consciously, more probably semi-unconsciously). Yet, there is one question that I did not pose myself until years later:

How had my supervisors felt when they saw that the next draft still contained some of the same errors?

More than 10 years have passed since then. I am now the supervisor of five PhD students (and I have provided feedback to many, many more). From the other side of the fence, now I have the answer: at times, I feel ignored and frustrated. (At other times, let’s be honest, I don’t even remember what comments I’d made).

Recently, I came across a paper showing that this sort of feedback overflow (and ignoring) is quite common 1 . As supervisors, we too often try to make students’ papers exactly like we would write them. Or we secretly fear what others will think of us if a less-than-perfect paper goes out into the world with our name attached to it. As students, the deluge of critical feedback is emotionally difficult (or plain confusing). Glossing over some comments is thus one of the subtle mechanisms that our minds have to protect our (already fragile and impostor-syndromey) egos.

Is there a way to escape this situation in which we give too much feedback that then gets ignored? Can we at the same time avoid breaking doctoral students’ already “fragile shell of success”? 1 Here’s the trick I use lately to counter this situation in my own research and supervision…

An alternative way to give feedback to your PhD students (or peers)

• Take a post-it (the normal-sized ones, not the big ones) and a pen. Yes, even if the document is on Google Docs or some other digital platform.
• As you read, control the impulse of quick-reaction commenting on small details, vocabulary or clumsy figures of speech (tools like Google Docs make this exceedingly easy and tempting). Look for the broad, structural, fundamental problems that break the paper. Or recurrent issues that repeat throughout the text.
• When you detect such an important issue, write a quick note down in the post-it (not a full sentence, just a bullet-point memory aid)
• You are not allowed to exceed the space of the post-it (on both sides, if it comes to that). This limits your notes to no more than ten-ish feedback items.
• Be clear and specific (”????” is not a useful comment).
• Be constructive. Don’t just point out problems (feedback); spend more effort suggesting alternatives, next steps or new ways to think about the text (feedforward) 1 , 2 .
• Never make personal attributions (“you are a bad writer”).
• Paint errors as a common and natural part of the learning process (not something to fear) 3 .
• Consider the person’s current and self-perceived ability. Novices will need more encouragement and feedforward. More advanced writers can probably withstand more direct feedback 4
• Et cetera. Think what your comment will bring as an outcome, both in making this paper better and making future papers by this person better. How can we help them think and write clearly? If you (like me) never had a proper feedback education, go back and read education classics like Hattie’s work 3 , 4 .

A real example of post-it feedback, from a few weeks ago

Doing feedback this way helps me revise papers faster, and focuses my energy on the important stuff. What’s important? the ideas in the paper and the evidence behind them… and making my feedback an effective tool to help others learn.

At least, I have found this method better than the old giving up, frustrated, after 50 small comments on the first page of a document.

Cautions, caveats and other qualms

Using this method requires a change, both in our practice and other people’s expectations. It will be hard at the beginning. Also, pay attention when not to use it:

• When giving your feedback, highlight that it isn’t all possible comments, just the most important ones. Avoid the false expectation that, once those are solved, the paper is perfect. You could even say explicitly how many iteration rounds you think are left (or use a 1-10 readiness scale).
• This post-it feedback method works best with internal research reports, or in iterative paper writing processes (like the one I have recommended before in this blog ).
• Do not hold up on feedback about the truly important things, like methodological rigor and other scientific must-haves. If you plan to sign as a co-author, you accept responsibility for what is said in the paper !
• In summary, use your judgement when deciding if this method is appropriate. It may not be useful in the last revision round of a dissertation (when polishing many tiny details is actually the point).

Happy revising!

Do you have any other tips or tricks when giving feedback to your PhD students or your peers? Tell us in the comment section below!

Header image via Pixy .

Carter, S., & Kumar, V. (2017). ‘Ignoring me is part of learning’: Supervisory feedback on doctoral writing. Innovations in Education and Teaching International , 54 (1), 68–75. ↩︎

Budworth, M.-H., Latham, G. P., & Manroop, L. (2015). Looking forward to performance improvement: A field test of the feedforward interview for performance management. Human Resource Management , 54 (1), 45–54. ↩︎

Hattie, J. A., & Yates, G. C. (2014). Using feedback to promote learning. In Applying Science of Learning in Education (pp. 45–58). http://teachpsych.org/resources/documents/ebooks/asle2014.pdf#page=51 ↩︎

Brooks, C., Carroll, A., Gillies, R. M., & Hattie, J. (2019). A matrix of feedback for learning. Australian Journal of Teacher Education , 44 (4), 2. ↩︎

• Supervision
• Feedforward

Luis P. Prieto

Luis P. is a Ramón y Cajal research fellow at the University of Valladolid (Spain), investigating learning technologies, especially learning analytics. He is also an avid learner about doctoral education and supervision, and he's the main author at the A Happy PhD blog.

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Sister of PhD student in ‘throuple’ believe he was killed out of jealousy as boyfriend remains on the run

The body of deundray cottrell was found in a shed in birmingham, alabama on july 6, article bookmarked.

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The sister of a 31-year-old PhD student murdered last week in Alabama believes her brother was killed by his boyfriend out of jealousy and possessiveness.

Deundray Cottrell, of Atlanta, went missing in Birmingham on July 4 while visiting family for the holiday with his boyfriend Julian Taylor Morris, 31.

His body was found two days later in a shed close to the home of his sister, Angelica Harris, and his death ruled a homicide. No arrests have been made.

A murder investigation was launched and Morris has been named a person of interest. A search for Morris, who has ties to Texas, Miami and New Jersey, is underway.

Harris told Al.com on Wednesday that her brother was in a throuple relationship with Morris and another man, DeEric Williams. Cottrell and Williams had been together for 14 years, according to his sister, and Morris became part of the throuple three years ago. All three of the men lived together and worked together.

“From what I understand, Julian was starting cause issues between Deundray and De Eric,’’ Harris told Al.com. “He would start spats that would isolate DeEric and Deundray from each other.”

Cottrell, Morris and Williams described themselves on Instagram as Atlanta’s hottest creative male performance trio and event hosts.

Williams, who did not travel to Birmingham, reacted to the news of Cottrell’s death on Facebook.

“My entire heart has been ripped out of my body. Good people are hurting. I wish I never let y’all go to Birmingham without me. No one can ever replace you,” he wrote.

At the time of his death, Cottrell was working on his doctoral degree. He had previously attended Jacksonville State University.

Harris told WSB-TV that she last saw her brother at 10pm on July 4 after he went upstairs to check on his dog during the fireworks. Morris disappeared around the same time, she said.

She said Morris was the one who then alerted her that her brother was missing.

Morris allegedly told Angelica that her brother had jumped off the patio balcony, then “took off running.”

But as the family began to search for him, she said that Morris’ behavior was strange. “While we looked – Julian didn’t,” she told the TV station. “At one point when everybody was searching, Julian had fixed a plate and was sitting there eating, and he looked at me and said, OMG, the food is so good.”

Birmingham police officers said they were dispatched to a missing person call at a residence in the 7900 Block of 4th Avenue South on July 4.

Ring doorbell cameras in the area later revealed Cottrell running through backyards and jumping over a gate on the night he went missing.

“It looked like he was looking for refuge,” Angelica told Al.com. “He was running for his life.”

On July 5, police recovered some of Cottrell’s clothing in the area, and a neighbor provided officers with surveillance footage of him.

Officers discovered Cottrell’s body the following day in a detached shed in the backyard of an abandoned residence.

“Details surrounding this investigation are suspicious,” Birmingham police said.

Victor Revill, an attorney representing Morris, told al.com that he is a “college-educated veteran whom has served his country faithfully as a Marine. He has no prior misdemeanor or felony convictions.”

He continued: “Despite the false narratives that are being promulgated about him in this situation, he loved Deundray Cottrell and is currently grieving the death of his loved one. Mr Morris wants answers as well and is awaiting those answers after a full and thorough investigation has been completed.”

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School of Education

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UCR School of Education Announces 2024 Ph.D. Doctoral Graduates

The SOE is proud to announce and celebrate our doctoral graduates who successfully defended their dissertations this academic year. Congratulations to all!

Name : Carlos A. Galan

Dissertation Title : For (Y)Our Eyes Only: Latina/o/x Faculty Navigating Tenure Expectations at Hispanic Serving Institutions

Dissertation Abstract : This study explores the experiences of 30Latina/o/x faculty navigating tenure expectations at Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs). The author uses qualitative interviews, guided by organizational theory and epistemic exclusion, to identify organizational conditions, policies, and practices that promote or impede the professional development and progression of Latina/o/x faculty in tenure-track appointments.  

The research in this study reveals four main findings that suggest striking parallels between HSIs and Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). The first finding details participants’ pathways into the professoriate. The second finding illustrates how Latina/o/x faculty experienced uneven levels of support as they navigated ambiguous, contradictory, and vague tenure expectations. The third finding emphasizes how Latina/o/x faculty members’ experiences managing tenure requirements at HSIs were dominated by the salience of being undervalued and disrespected in their contributions to research, teaching, and service while dealing with microaggressions. The fourth finding highlights how Latina/o/x professors coped with epistemic exclusion and shortcomings in their socialization experiences as they undertook the role of tenure-track professors at their respective institutions.  

The findings of this study have direct implications for diversifying the professoriate and improving educational outcomes for Latina/o/x students in higher education. Through these four findings, the author argues that the experiences of Latina/o/x professors in tenure-track appointments continue the history of a lack of institutional support that haunts the Latina/o/x community in higher education. The author introduces the concept of "Confianza" to combat the salience of epistemic exclusion in the organizational socialization of Latina/o/x faculty as a way to enact servingness at HSIs to better serve the Latina/o/x faculty and the Latina/o/x community in higher education.

Chair : Dr. Raquel M. Rall, Chairperson  

Committee Members : Dr. Eddie Comeaux, Dr. Louie F. Rodriguez

Future Plans : I will start a tenure-track position at CSU San Bernardino’s Watson College of Education; I will be part of the Special Education Rehabilitation and Counseling program.  

Reflection : I had a relatively good time at UC Riverside, but I am convinced I could not have completed a doctoral program without my wonderful advisor and dissertation chair, Dr. Raquel M. Rall. Thank you for taking a chance on me and fostering my growth throughout these years. Thank you for exemplifying what leading with excellence and grace truly is. Being your student, Dr. Rall, means answering the call to lead and do good work, but most importantly, work that matters. I hope to continue to answer that call.

I am grateful to my committee members, Dr. Eddie Comeaux and Dr. Louie Rodriguez. Your guidance and leadership were critical to completing my dissertation. Additionally, I express gratitude to my dissertation co-creators, students, SOE faculty and staff, as well as friends and family who supported and cheered for me throughout my educational journey. Nothing is done alone, because of you, I am.

Name : Elissa Monteiro

Dissertation Title : Teachers as a Viable Mechanism of Change to Support Students’ Self-Regulation

Dissertation Abstract : Self-regulation is a multidimensional set of skills critical for providing students the foundation for goal-based, self-controlled behavior. These skills are a predictor of students’ academic success and behavioral, social, and emotional well-being. A wealth of research has been dedicated to implementation of evidence-based interventions targeting students’ self-regulation, particularly for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) whom teachers often report are more stressful to teach. Lack of knowledge about ADHD, low self-efficacy in supporting students with ADHD, and negative student-teacher relationships have been found to contribute to teacher stress. However, there remains a need to address whether teacher factors (e.g., knowledge about ADHD, experience working with students with ADHD) influence the effectiveness of interventions targeting ADHD symptoms. This dissertation is composed of two studies that aimed to examine the teacher-level factors salient for improving school-based interventions designed for students with ADHD. The first study used a small scale, in-depth systematic literature review to investigate intervention studies that concurrently measured student outcomes and teacher-level factors to elucidate teacher-level barriers and facilitators of each of the interventions. The second study evaluated the effectiveness of a teacher training designed to improve pre-service teacher knowledge about ADHD and self-efficacy in their ability to support students with ADHD. Recommendations are made for future directions in school-based ADHD intervention research and implications are discussed for educators and school psychological practice.

Chair : Dr. Stephanie Moore

Committee Members : Dr. Eui Kyung Kim & Dr. Austin Johnson

Future Plans : I am excited to continue my work refining the treatment of psychosocial school-based treatments for students with self-regulatory challenges! I have secured a postdoctoral research position with the Healthy Child and Family Development lab in the Clinical Psychology department at San Diego State University. The research project I will contribute to aims to integrate team-based development and collaboration to enhance an established school-based intervention for children with ADHD. I am delighted to join SDSU and UCSD’s collaborative research network, the Center for Team Effectiveness to Accelerate Evidence-Based Practice Implementation in Children’s Mental Health Services, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health.  

Reflection : I joined the School Psychology department at UCR five years ago because it was apparent to me from the very beginning that UCR’s School of Education is a collaborative environment where I could carve a path unique to my interests and career goals. With time, this proved to be very true.  When prospective students ask me about my experience at UCR, the first thing I tell them is that my peers are my people. I tell them that the community of students who belong to SOE is rich with innovative ideas, good advice for getting through graduate school, and a passion for promoting access to quality education in our work. I have so many people to thank for the experiences I’ve gathered at UCR. I’d like to shout out the incredible experiences that SOE and GSA have provided me with by providing me with funds to travel to conferences and seek professional development experiences. I also cannot thank the Academic Preparation, Recruitment and Outreach team enough for supporting my Grad Slam win! I would not have been able to complete my doctoral degree without the support provided by my advisor, Dr. Stephanie Moore, and the encouragement and support provided by my cohort. WE DID IT!

Name : Norbert Negrea

Dissertation Title : ACEs, Education and Space: The Relationship of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Education Across California Counties

Dissertation Abstract : When considering issues of education in the United States of America, the vantage point to understanding inequity in education outcomes changes when the scope of an issue is seen from a systemic perspective compared to individual perspective. Research in public health suggests that childhood adversity is often experienced as a serious threat to a child’s physical or psychological sense of safety and wellbeing. In order to investigate childhood adversity and education over space, theoretical applications and methods focusing on more macro level systemic vantage points were selected for the current study. Addressing the need for more nuanced research on the relationship between ACEs, space and educational outcomes in secondary schools in California, the proposed study contributes by providing a complex data base of expanded ACEs definitions, the creation of an ACE composite variable and then linking them to the educational outcomes of public high school students across California’s 58 counties. The primary techniques utilized in analysis focused on geospatial analysis and linear regression. The constructed ACE composite variable was especially suited to the proposed study given that it was explicitly designed to explore the magnitude of accumulated ACE exposure over a geographic area. Results of the study painted a complex relationship between ACEs, space and education, with particularly interesting findings surrounding the difference between more rural/suburban counties compared to their urban counterparts, including important regional differences between north/central counties and southern counties. Implications on how California can follow suit of other states in the nation to standardize, organize and disseminate statewide ACE data and what kind of policy is feasible within the state to combat the negative population effects of ACE exposure on education outcomes are provided.  

Chair : Dr. Robert Ream  

Committee Members : Dr. Marsha Ing, Dr. Amos Lee  

Future Plans : Continuing to push for education equity in my current position working with LA county foster youth, aiming to gain more leverage in the field of analysis and policy.  

Reflection : I really appreciate UCR as a place where colleagues and great minds come together to push the envelope on social and educational equity. It has been such a pleasure working with great professors and friends to explore my scholarship and sharpen my research skills. I thank my committee, friends and especially my wife, daughter and family for the priceless support through all the difficult hurdles to complete this degree.

Name : Tori Porter

Dissertation Title : “Why couldn't I have a different experience that felt free?”: A Critical Narrative Inquiry on the Impacts of Plantation Politics on the Social and Academic Experiences of Black Transgender Students in Higher Education

Dissertation Abstract : This critical narrative inquiry examined the social and academic experiences of 20 Black transgender students currently or formerly enrolled in 4-year colleges and universities in the United States. Employing AntiBlack transness and plantation politics as my analytical framework, I demonstrate the insidious impact of plantation politics on Black transgender students' social and academic lives, which animate in both the processual and structural interactions within the plantation university. By problematizing the presence of plantation politics in both the processual and structural aspects of higher education, my study contributes to empirical understandings of how power dynamics operate within postsecondary institutions and the specific challenges faced by Black transgender students. The narratives shared by Black transgender students highlight the lack of representation, increased vulnerability, and the burden of educating others within the campus community. Furthermore, my research uncovers various issues, such as isolation, rejection, and marginalization, that lead some Black transgender students to abandon their educational pursuits. Despite examples of exclusion, my study also reveals how Black transgender students demonstrate a deep understanding of the expansiveness of their identities, fostering connections and communities within and beyond institutional spaces. Black transgender students create and sustain communities of care that provide vital support, recognition, and understanding, offering a safe and reliable space to be themselves without explanation. Battling institutional pushback and lacking formal support, these communities thrive; students meet one another's basic needs and facilitate their well-being and success. Black transgender students are actively creating spaces of Black trans futurity and transformation, where they (re)claim their life, (re)gain their agency, and embrace nonconformity. I offer practitioners the urgency in their willingness to resist and challenge the status quo, even in the face of significant obstacles, to support Black transgender students. Supporting these students will require disruptive logic, realigning solidarity, and shifting paradigms to meet Black transgender students where they are.

Chair : Dr. Raquel M. Rall

Committee Members : Dr. Rican Vue, Dr. Michael Moses II, Dr. Dylan Rodriguez

Future plans : Re-establishing my grandfather’s nonprofit organization, The Porter Education Foundation.

Reflection : I am unendingly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to work in various capacities while at UCR. From having one of the best advisors, Dr. Rall and being part of a tight group of researchers and colleagues, #TeamRall, thank you!

Name : Manasi Rajadhyaksha

Dissertation Title : Examining Social-Emotional Development in Black Children: Role of Intrapersonal and Contextual Factors

Dissertation Abstract : Several socio-ecological factors play a critical role in influencing child development in general and social-emotional development in particular. While various studies have shed light on the influence of intrapersonal and external factors on children's social-emotional skills, fewer have comprehensively examined these factors, particularly within the context of middle childhood and specifically among Black children. Furthermore, only a limited number of studies have specifically investigated these associations within racial groups rather than between them. The current study aimed to fill this gap by investigating how child characteristics, interpersonal discrimination experiences, and family dynamics shape social-emotional development in Black children.  

Using a nationally representative database of fifth-grade students, the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 2010-11 (ECLS-K:2011), the current study partially tested the integrative conceptual model of adaptive racial/ethnic and emotion socialization by Dunbar and colleagues (2017). Weighted hierarchical regression analysis was used to examine four of the five main components included in the model. Results indicated both intrapersonal and contextual factors can influence the social-emotional developmental outcomes of Black children. Specifically, these outcomes are determined by Black children’s emotion regulation levels, their parents’ involvement in school activities, parents’ mental well-being, and the quality of the home environment in which the children live and grow. Findings from the proposed study can provide useful information for educators, mental health professionals, and caregivers related to the multiple complex elements in Black children’s lives that may stimulate or inhibit their social- emotional functioning levels. This information can further guide the development and use of culturally relevant intervention strategies and treatment procedures for this population.  

Chair : Austin Johnson

Committee Members : Eui Kyung Kim, Stephanie Moore  

Reflection : I wish to express my deepest gratitude to the incredible mentors I had the privilege of working with at UC Riverside: Dr. Austin Johnson, Dr. Evelyn Vázquez, and Dr. William Erchul. Your unwavering support, guidance, and motivation have been invaluable to my Ph.D. journey, and I aspire to pay forward the kindness you've shown me throughout my professional career. I am profoundly thankful to my dissertation committee members and the SOE faculty, Drs. Kim and Moore, for their steadfast support and encouragement during these past years. Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible support system I am blessed with in life—my family and all my friends—whose unwavering support has been the wind beneath my wings. To my cherished family of the heart, Vikrant and Flash, I have only one thing to say: I am because you are.

Finally, I am grateful to the UC Riverside community for embracing me as one of its own and helping me find a home 8,000 miles away from home.

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How should I reply and thank a potential supervisor's email? [closed]

This is a mail I received from my potential supervisor who is willing to supervise my PhD study. I want to thank him for the email.

Dear XXX, I would like to know how it goes with your scholarship. Is the schedule already known/clarified? I would be happy if you would keep in touch with me on the further progress of your fellowship.

Is that OK to say Thank you for showing concern or Thank you for your time ?

Please suggest something because I want to write him back with thanks.

• 2 Why do you want to thank him? I'm not saying it's a bad idea, but it seems like he has a personal stake in knowing the outcome of your fellowship application (he wants to know if he has to pay for you or not). So it would make sense for him to be curious about this, and it doesn't mean he's concerned for your general welfare. –  Ben Bitdiddle Commented Nov 20, 2014 at 7:42
• Why not thanking him? It is polite, you are nice to another human being, and it is free. –  Davidmh Commented Nov 20, 2014 at 7:50
• 1 I want to thank him for the email. Just write "Thank you for your email." –  silvado Commented Nov 20, 2014 at 10:42
• 2 This is getting dangerously close to treating this website as a "help me write an email" consulting service. :) –  mako Commented Dec 20, 2014 at 23:08
• 1 This question appears to be off-topic because it is about how to write thank you notes. –  earthling Commented Dec 21, 2014 at 2:59

Dear Joshua (or Dear Prof. Smith or whatever you use to call him), I have submitted all the necessary documents to Agency ABC and I am awaiting the file to be processed. I will let you know whenever I get any more information. They told me that it's expected by the end of November. Since I was assured that the application will be eventually accepted, I would like to ask you if we could meet to discuss the topic of the PhD in more detail, so that I can start to study the related literature. Thanks. Best regards, Charlie

This is just an example of a reply I would make. The level of politeness you choose should reflect your previous communication and your relationship.

As well, you're not going to say that the application is accepted if it is not. So in general, just inform him about the status and show your interest in the cooperation. You don't need to make it long, he's basically asking for a status of the thing and he's most probably expecting a short and on-the-spot reply.

• Can I ask the downvoter what did I do wrong, so that my next answers are better? Thanks. –  yo' Commented Dec 25, 2014 at 23:48

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