Ada on building confidence

How did you come to pursue your research topic in Nijmegen? 

I first came to Nijmegen to pursue a research master’s in language and research. With a background in speech-language pathology, I realized clinical practice wasn’t for me, but I enjoyed the research I was doing and wanted to be better at it. The program here allowed me to explore different areas of linguistics and develop my interests, which led me to work with supervisors who share my passion and a topic I am truly committed to. Over time, I’ve grown fond of both the university and the city, so continuing my studies here felt natural.

What are some of the highlights of your doctoral life so far?

One of the best parts about doing a PhD is realizing  that you can do difficult things. Early on in my PhD, I had the opportunity to present a paper I was proud of at a major conference. It was my first oral presentation too. I received some critical feedback from the audience, which included many researchers whose work I admire, and sparked quite a discussion. To my surprise, I was able to stand my ground and defended our work. Another highlight was co-hosting a workshop abroad with my supervisor. I was initially nervous about being on the other side of training, but thorough preparation made it a rewarding experience and allowed me to connect with PhDs from related fields. Much of the work can feel invisible, but moments like these make the progress shine through.

What advice do you have for peers or those considering doctoral studies? 

Follow your curiosity. My PhD journey began with a topic that truly excited me, and everything else fell into place once I found the courage to pursue it. If you’re interested in linguistics, Nijmegen is a wonderful place to be. For anyone considering a PhD, think carefully about who you want to work with, what you want to read, and how you want to spend your time over the next few years. I often remind myself that my favorite thing about this job is having the freedom to explore and to follow unexpected rabbit holes you encounter while working on your project. It’s really fun.