First big project pieces coming up due this week and next. The pressure of juggling so many pieces pressing hard into my neck and shoulders, leaving clenches of tension.
How do these assignments relate to the bigger picture of what I’m studying? If the topic doesn’t relate in any clear way, what am I getting out of it? Where does it make sense to go from where I am now?
At the end of my studies, I want the focus of my work to be relevant for policy. How can I make sure this happens?
Some days of academic study are filled with self doubt about the (ir?)relevance of the work and the direction it will go. And especially about how it will all fit together in a tidy summation of Ph.D. experience. Today is one of those days.