So, after keeping years of silence about receiving an R&R on my PhD viva, yesterday I broke the silence. I told people, not only from my department (I am sure that some may have gathered this already), but also, colleagues from other departments - I attend a conference right now, so I met many of them at the event. Frankly, I did not feel embarrassed about this result (I used to feel very embarrassed on the first year after the viva). I did my best, I resubmitted, and now waiting...

It is kind of therapeutic being honest with people instead of avoiding to discuss my PhD. Yes, I know, people will gossip behind my back, but you know what? I simply don't care any more. I am pleased with myself and that's all that counts.

Now, of course, this move of mine may close many future doors to my career plans; but as my supervisor once mentioned: in the end of the day, if you get your PhD, that's all that matters.

Good on you. Fortune favours the brave, you know... .

I can't imagine people finding this out hurting your prospects at all, whatsoever! The head of Film Studies at my University is a Professor who got this outcome on his PhD. If anything it shows you have endurance!

I know what you mean marasp. I didn't do as well as (my supervisor and others) expected and there are certain people I don't especially want to discuss it with although I've told everyone who I know won't judge me (and I'm lucky to have quite a few of those in my life). Well done for being open about it!

I don't think it will count against you, especially if you and your supervisor are on good terms and he/she will write you a decent reference.

No thesis is perfect and a lot depends on the examiners - so anyone who does judge you isn't worth knowing. My view is that it's good to be given a chance to improve your thesis. It will stand you in good stead for future academic work.

Well, let;s put it this way: it's a good opportunity to see who cares and who doesn't. People's responses:

-Oh, really?
-I got no corrections when I had my viva.
-So, it really happens getting a result like this?
-What did your supervisor say about the result?
-I cannot imagine how it would feel being in your shoes.
-I wish you luck.
-Well, I know that it has also happened to (insert name of person here).

Some people get happy with other peoples' misfortunes.

The way I see it, is that a PhD is a journey. For some, it's a relatively smooth one, and for others, well, they just have slog for a few extra miles. What matters is finishing the journey and reaping the rewards.