Before starting my PhD, I was a Lecturer at the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at a Chilean University. I decided to start my PhD to continue my improvement of research knowledge because a PhD is substantial to continue the academic career. Also, I have worked in different ministries and public services in my home country. Before starting my PhD, I was coordinating a European Union project in alliance with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile.
A PhD process differs from a PG/UG study in many aspects. First, the PhD research is a more flexible space in which you are the leader of your process, the intensity of your study and the outcomes you would obtain through this process depend on you as a researcher. Although, you have the guidance and support of your supervisors during the PhD, everything depends on you.
Secondly, the PhD process is more independent and lonelier than a PG/UG study. Despite having your colleagues, most of the time the PhD researcher is working in the own project. It is not like the PG/UG context in which you see your classmates daily and prepare coursework or exams with them.