PhD Journal Of A Ghanaian Woman in Stem

From finishing my first rotation to beginning my second, I am reflecting on how my research experience has been and how different it is from the education I received in Ghana. More importantly, I am learning that a PhD program can be very overwhelming and I need to prioritize my health and wellbeing. The first few weeks were draining emotionally and mentally. Everybody has different stressors, so it can be useful to be conscious of them as you go on to the next phase of your life. From settling into a new environment, adjusting to a change in routine and weather, balancing the demands of the course work and lab expectations to meeting new people, I have learned the importance of setting healthy boundaries and prioritizing my needs.

Until I started my PhD, I had never really sat to ask myself what optimal mental health means to me. I have learned quickly how important that is.

Here are some of the things I am doing to prioritize my health.

1. Getting enough sleep. The power of sleep cannot be over-emphasized.
2. Eat to nourish, energize, and thrive – your body will thank you for every wholesome bite.
3. Making new friends. Special appearance is Ting : )
4. Bringing back to life lois_theartist.
5. Taking pictures of everything, including my sample box.
6. Edits bio and inserts “Plant mum🍃”

In graduate school, it occasionally seems as though productivity is valued more highly than mental health and wellbeing. PhD work is challenging. In fact, it might be among the most difficult things you can ever accomplish. It is important to do the things you love and love the things you do.