Induction and welcome

Starting a doctoral degree can be a daunting experience.  At Surrey, we understand just how different the doctorate is from your previous study. Consequently, we have put in place a structured induction programme to help smooth the transition into doctoral level research and prepare you well for the journey ahead.

Welcome Week

Postgraduate research students who have accepted their offer to commence in October will be sent information on the events taking place in Welcome Week. All postgraduate research students across the University are brought together for three events:

Welcome from PGR Directors and students

During this event new students get to ask any questions they may have about the doctoral experience and receive some helpful tips from current students.

Induction to Central Support Services

The aim of this event is to introduce new students to the wealth of services available to them. It includes presentations from key people who provide pastoral and academic support to postgraduate research students including the Library, Student Support Services, Careers, and the Researcher Development Programme.

Quiz and Curry

This is a social event which aims to bring students together to meet each other and academic staff in an informal and relaxed environment.

These events are complemented by a series of discipline-specific events including meeting Programme Directors, supervisors, academic liaison librarians and study skills sessions.

For a flavour of what happens during Welcome Week and to find more useful information, please refer to the Welcome Week website.

A condensed version of the welcome activities is provided locally and in the Welcome to Your PhD workshop for students commencing in January, April and July.

Tips for the First Few Weeks

There is plenty of support available to help you make the best start with your doctorate, but you may find the following tips helpful:

First supervisory meeting

  • Make sure you are clear on your responsibilities and those of your supervisors
  • Agree some SMART targets for the next six months
  • Agree on the training you need and make sure you attend the compulsory workshop Welcome to Your PhD.
  • Keep notes of the meeting and agreed outcomes and actions
  • Set a date for your next meeting and stick to it (no later than one month from the first meeting)

Get involved

  • Attend research seminars, journal clubs and any other events which allow you to meet other doctoral students and talk about your research
  • Attend or present at the Postgraduate Research Conference
  • Get involved with the Students’ Union
  • Think national: look outside the University for networks you can get involved in