HYPE

BLOWN

Coal

TAPE

FLOWS

CLAPS

PAPA

I think it depends on your field of study. I know in the sciences a masters is not essential if you have a good undergrad degree. However from what I have read on here a masters is more often than not required for arts/humanities subjects.

No idea of any websites giving insight into academia as a career choice. Maybe you could talk to some of your lecturers (if you are still at uni) and ask them about a career in academia.

I wouldn't worry too much. I can't remember what field you are in, but I have noticed that in my field (microbiology) that certain phrases, facts and ideas are put across in pretty much the same style in many papers and so you do find yourself saying exactly the same thing. Your style is undoubtably going to be influenced by certain people, this occurs in many areas of life. Songwriters are influenced by other songwriters, writers are influenced by the classics and artists can often have some influence from someone else. I think the main thing to maintain is that you have a constant writing style and that your work flows; I have read some stuff where there is an obvious change of style where you can tell that the author has either been given a passage to slot in or copied something from elsewhere.

I got funding to travel to an international conference from a couple of associations I am a member of. Alot of societies/associations have student travel grants and bursaries so it might be worth contacting them if you are a member.

:$ He said he wouldn't tell anyone!!

yup I have no idea what I want to do.. academia? industry? civil service? waiter in a cocktail bar?

I went to a conference a couple of weeks ago which was about 'what to do next' but it left me with even more options rather than help meto narrow down what I want to do!!

Is it a pony this time?

Good luck for the future :-)

CRAPS