Postgrad Chronicles #13: Back From Research Grind

After a four-month break, I’m back to share the highs and lows of postgrad life in my ongoing "Postgrad Chronicles" series. Life got intense as my research projects kicked into high gear, and it’s been quite a ride.

Between juggling multiple projects and trying to maintain my sanity, I’ve faced moments of sheer exhaustion. The research grind is real, making it often feel like I’m running a marathon without a clear finish line.

Many of you might relate, especially when navigating the challenges of academia and personal relationships. I want to share some vital experiences from my recent journey in hopes they resonate with you.

The Research Cycle: A First Timer’s Journey

Let’s dive into the publication cycle. For those of you new to research, it can feel like a whirlwind. It begins with crafting that all-important manuscript. The excitement of compiling your findings is palpable, but soon you realize you are at the foot of a steep mountain.

Once your manuscript is polished, it goes through an internal review process. You seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors (supervisor), which can be a blessing but might also leave you feeling overwhelmed. It’s like getting a spotlight on your shortcomings.

After you incorporate all the suggestions, you finally hit submit. You take a deep breath, thinking this is the turning point. But then—boom! Desk rejection. This dreaded fate is common, yet not often discussed openly.

The Heart of Desk Rejection

When I received my desk rejection from the Editor-in-Chief, I braced myself. Yet, it still stung. I felt a mix of disappointment and doubt. Everyone says it's part of the process, but in that moment, it felt personal.

It’s crucial to remember that this is just part of the journey. Research is a rollercoaster, filled with ups and downs. Resilience is key. I’ve learned that sometimes publications don’t happen due to timing or fit; it’s not a reflection of your worth.

According to a 2021 survey, about 43% of first-time researchers experience desk rejection. This statistic offers perspective that you're not alone in feeling this way.

The Sweet Taste of Acceptance

On a brighter note, I recently had a conference paper accepted after just two months "under review". Such a relief! This acceptance came amid the chaos of my research, and it served as a reminder of why I love what I do. (P.s. I know conferences have higher acceptance rate, so it is not the same as a journal article)

The process from submission to acceptance felt lengthy. With many other projects on my desk, I barely recalled what I had written for this paper. Yet that’s the nature of academia: you manage multiple projects (or multiple faucets of a project), but every success is a small light in the fog.

Participants interacting during an academic conference.

Navigating Human Relationships

Amid all this academic hustle, we mustn’t forget about the human relationships that are vital. During this intense period, keeping in touch with friends and family has been challenging.

You know how it goes—your friends might not understand why you can’t "take a break" or "go out for a drink." I’ve learned that clear communication is essential. I explain my workload while letting them know I’m there in spirit.

Don’t underestimate the power of a support system. Whether fellow postgrads, family, or friends, they remind you that you are not alone. Sharing experiences, swapping rejection stories, and adding some humor helps lighten the load.

The Waiting Game

Then comes the waiting game—the most torturous part of the publication process. After you submit, you enter a limbo, anxiously awaiting a decision. You check your email constantly, ruminating on "what if" scenarios: What if I didn’t format my references correctly? What if the reviewers didn’t grasp my point? Such thoughts can lead to sleepless nights!

Eventually, you receive the "under review" confirmation. It may seem minor, but it’s a relief—you’re no longer in the dark. Yet, waiting for reviewer comments heightens the anxiety. You cling to the hope that your hard work will resonate with the reviewers.

Revisions and Resubmissions

Once you get the comments, it’s revision time. Depending on the feedback, you might feel as though you’re back at square one. Some comments are constructive; others can feel harsh. However, constructive criticism helps improve your work, which is something I try to remind myself.

After applying the revisions, the path leads to resubmission. Each time you hit submit, there’s a sense of renewal. It feels fresh, full of possibility for that second chance.

However, you once again contend with the cycle of waiting. You sit through it all, hoping this time you will receive that golden "accept" email.

Reflecting on the Journey So Far

Reflecting on this relentless journey of research and publication, it’s easy to feel lost. With so many different projects on my plate, it’s hard to remember all the details of each paper.

Sometimes I find myself confused about the messages I aimed to convey in various manuscripts. This is why maintaining a clear log of progress has become essential. It keeps my mind organized in the midst of chaos.

Through exhaustion, rejection, and tentative victories, my key takeaway has been perseverance. This journey isn’t solely about getting published; it’s about growth and self-discovery. Each step, whether triumph or setback, contributes to shaping me into a more resilient researcher.

Back From the Research Grind

And so, here we are, returning from the research grind. The intensity of the past months has been all-consuming, but it also offered invaluable lessons in resilience, human connection, and academic exploration.

I hope sharing my journey resonates with you, whether you are deep in your own research or navigating life’s complexities. Remember, you are not alone in this chaotic journey. We are all in it together, gradually moving toward our goals.

If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, feel free to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear from fellow postgrads or anyone facing their own challenges!

A cozy research workspace with academic materials spread out.