Finally the dreaded day has come! Most of my preparations were ready with the help of my supervisors. It was not 100%, but I felt that what I did was good enough.
I was late probably 30 minutes later than what I originally planned. Managed to tweak a bit my presentation slides in the morning, where I deemed appropriate. My wardrobe planning were done yesterday and I had everything ready the night before. Wardrobe planning is so important to me, that I would not risk it for the last minute throw as it could end up not right the first time, and I would waste times to find what will fit; then I would be late and other disasters would follow. Talking about neuroticism, but I accept myself this way.
I was happy with how I looked and my makeup was alright! My car took a bit more time to warm up, but I just waited patiently knowing I will arrive on time (30 minutes later than what I had planned).
I tried to stay calm throughout my journey to the uni, reassuring myself that I had done enough preparation for it. Whatever happens, I’ll just need to catch up and do my corrections. It’s all in God’s hand.
I arrived 15 minutes early. Set up my laptop, presentation slides with the projector and basically got myself ready and made sure that I was within the right mindset.
The presentation went smoothly as per my usual practice mock DRP. It was a lot better and smoother than what I had expected. Got a lot of feedbacks and questions from the examiners and everyone present. After I finished answering and clarified what was asked, I was asked to stay outside with my supervisors as the panel were discussing among themselves on my results.
Had a little chat with my supervisors while waiting for the results. When we were called in I was calm, maybe because I fought and waited so long for this day. The chairperson explained to me all the passing ranks and the justifications. Finally, he announced that I passed with rank 2! Hooray!! Very minimal correction and only my supervisors will endorse the corrections after that. We were all so pleased with the results. We were then given the opportunity to speak a few words and I was so happy and expressed my gratitude and appreciation for everyone involved especially towards my supervisors.
What I took from the session was, I did a good job together with my supervisors at research. According to the panels, my research is in line or at par with PhD level, for it’s prospective contribution not only for the industry, but also for the body of knowledge. Secondly, practice and hard work seldom come irreciprocated. Third, when I disagree with something, often I just need to express it and ask for help on how win win situation could be created with related parties. Finally, I was just so pleased because all of this was the fruition of my authentic intention and beliefs. I also could not do it without the support and understanding of my parents.
I would also like to stress that understanding my interests and my awareness of my behaviours my motivators, though it’s hard work and resulting from years of exploration – doing something that is aligned with myself will never feel like a burden; but rather something that I would be gladly and willingly fight for.
