Thanks Keep_Calm (love the name ;))

Doesn't help that I got asked for ID buying Christmas crackers the other day. Doesn't do much for one's confidence!

Aw, thanks guys. It's all so very much appreciated, and very encouraging to hear of those who were like me once and have overcome their fear. I guess I also worry that although I am 27 (not that old anyway), I look a lot younger. I'm concerned they may be thinking 'why is she teaching us?!'

I guess the way forward is to quit worrying and just throw myself in at the deep end. Eeek.

======= Date Modified 26 Nov 2010 10:49:37 =======
Oops wrong thread!

Thanks :) I realise practise makes perfect, but it's just getting over those first few times!

I have a real issue with my voice which is what it stems down to, I think. I pronounce my Rs softly, have a funny accent and generally just dislike my voice a lot. I'm so conscious of it when I'm public speaking that I can't think of anything else.

I think I am probably expected to present at conferences further down the line too, which I am totally dreading.

Arghh, this is driving me insane! I have always had a really bad fear of public speaking, even just doing 10 minute uni presentations were a nightmare - I get flustered, shaky, dry mouth, forget what I'm talking about and generally just balls it up. Anyway, my supervisor wants me to now take some undergrad seminars. I would truly love to do it (and get the money!) but I just can't imagine getting through it so at the moment I am shying away. I know how lucky I am because there's not a great deal of teaching going at the moment, and other PhD students are desperate to do some.

So, any hints or tips on how I can overcome this stupid fear? Or any on teaching in general?

======= Date Modified 23 Nov 2010 12:58:47 =======
Not a noodle soup, but this is my current favourite. so easy and SO cheap to make!

http://www.mydaily.co.uk/2010/08/27/apples-persian-onion-soup/

As for noodles, how about trying a tom yum paste?

Hi all,

I'm currently in the MRes year of a 1+3 ESRC studentship, and my university has suddenly decided I owe them £800 as they are charging above the maximum rate the ESRC will pay for the MRes fees. For the whole application process and up until now I was led to believe the studentship would cover my fees. Has anyone else been in this situation?

I realise how lucky I am to have a studentship, but at the same time I really do not have £800 spare :(

======= Date Modified 01 Nov 2010 09:47:42 =======
I feel your pain! Bach's isn't just for women, however it is only a step away from being a homeopathic remedy and therefore I am sceptical about how much it works. I did try it and it did nothing for me.. however others have said it works wonders.

I suffer with anxiety/panic attacks (it seems to be common amongst us PhDers... I wonder what that means?!) and the one single thing that has made a huge difference to me is cutting out caffeine. I had heard people say that you should do this, but always though 'oh how much harm can it do?'. My doctor then instructed me to cut it out for two weeks, so I did so, and it really does take away that constant 'on edge' feeling. It;s not completely cured me, but it has definitely made me generally more chilled and dare I say it, rational! The first few days are a killer though.

If you are actually suffering panic attacks as well, you could try beta blockers, although I'm cautious about relying on meds. I have been prescribed them but have only ever taken one - it did stop the physical symptoms of panic, but not the psychological ones. Just an option anyway - a lot of people choose not to take that route, but if it is for one off/infrequent situations and helps, then might be worth considering.

Other herbal options include St Johns Wort and Valerian.

Good luck :)

Yea, you would be able to get a nightbus quite easily from St Pancras to Paddington. Don't risk getting a taxi - they tend to overcharge like crazy, especially if you seem like a tourist.

As for Paris, I suggest staying in the Latin Quarter... imo definitely the easiest/nicest area to stay in. Have a great time!

Yes, definitely do it! I find that it can sometimes be a bit lonely staying in hotels on your own; therefore, unless you really like your own company, I would suggest looking for some kind of alternative accommodation where you have the chance to meet people etc. There are some wonderful 'grown up' hostels on the continent, you just have to look for them. Take lots of books and music and you will be fine. I went to France on my own for seven weeks and it was one of the best things I ever did. Barcelona is wonderful too.. so much to do - you definitely won't get bored. Enjoy!

I'm in shock that a supervisor suggested using Comic Sans!!

Today is a waste for me because I am full of cold so have given myself the day off :(

Thanks so much guys. I was hoping that this was the norm - I would much rather be able to knuckle down and really concentrate on the MRes, after all it is a full time course. Of course, I fully plan to focus on my PhD research throughout, but thought that trying to make a real start on it seemed a bit premature. I will discuss this further with my supervisor next week, but for now you have put my mind at rest a little! :-)

I am also starting a 1+3 ESRC studentship this week. Feel very overwhelmed by the whole thing at the moment, but hopefully that will subside once I get stuck into it. I'm also struggling for routine at the moment, but have been told it takes a few weeks or so to really get going.

Good luck all and I look forward to chattign with you over the next few years! *gulp*