Final Defense Tomorrow Morning

[HigherEdGuy]

I suspect I will struggle to accomplish satisfying rest tonight. I've gone over the high points and have a solid grasp of my research... what else should I do If I'm unable to sleep?

[Parasaurolophus]

Close your eyes and listen to a podcast or an audiobook for a while.

And remember that you know more about your dissertation and its topic than anyone else in the room, even if it doesn't feel that way.

[polly_mer]

Reread a favorite novel or make a favorite snack.

You've done what you can.  Now's the time to switch off and get a good night's sleep.

Parasaurolophus is right that you're the expert on your dissertation and that's the point of tomorrow.

[sinenomine]

I'll give you the same advice I got — eat a hearty breakfast and rock your defense!

[Vkw10]

Try deep breathing to calm yourself. I tend to choose a familiar audiobook or hardcover book to read if I'm not sleeping. Treat yourself to a good breakfast, then leave for campus a bit early so you have time for a stroll. You've been immersed in this research for a couple of years, so you'll be fine.

Remember to come back and tell us that you successfully defended. We love hearing good news!

[mamselle]

As they say, breathe.

Oxygen is the antidote to adrenaline.

Or so I tell my students (and myself) when performing before an audience.

Peace and good thoughts.

M.

[spork]

Use the bathroom before the defense starts.

[Parasaurolophus]

Good luck (and congratulations)!

[HigherEdGuy]

Thanks to all for your great advice. I finally fell asleep and only woke a few times in panic that I had overslept.


The defense was a success! I'm so thankful to be done (minus those small edits).

[ab_grp]

It's hard to get a good night of sleep in and not worry about oversleeping in this kind of situation.  But, you got through and did well.  Congratulations! Enjoy and celebrate (and, hopefully, sleep better)!

[mamselle]

Very good news.

Congrats!

M.

[mythbuster]

Huzzah! Time to crack the bubbly.

[Parasaurolophus]

Thanks to all for your great advice. I finally fell asleep and only woke a few times in panic that I had overslept.


The defense was a success! I'm so thankful to be done (minus those small edits).

Great work!

[Wahoo Redux]

Very big, good W00T to you!!!

Take a month off.

[mamselle]

...AFTER the edits are done, that is....

M.