A Critical Transition in my Research Journey by Yajing Wang, final year PhD student (Nursing Studies)
As a final year PhD student in Nursing Studies at the University of Edinburgh, I had the opportunity to present findings from an evaluation of the DigniSpace MOOC project led by Dr Macaden in my role as a Research Assistant at the 44th Annual International Nursing & Midwifery Research and Education Conference hosted by the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland in Dublin. This experience was not only a valuable opportunity for learning and academic exchange but also a crucial step in my transition from being a PhD student preparing to enter the world of academia. I deeply appreciate the research mentoring outside of my PhD provided by Dr Leah Macaden, also my PhD supervisor, which made this experience incredibly rewarding.
I attended a formal conference dinner the day before the conference. As it was my first time attending such a formal networking event, I initially felt nervous and uncertain about how to engage with an academic community. With Dr Leah Macaden’s company and guidance, I gradually adapted and had the opportunity to interact with researchers from various institutions and research fields. Through discussions on research topics and academic careers, I gained a deeper understanding of the true significance of academic networking, not just as a platform for information exchange but as a space for intellectual dialogue and future collaboration.
Yajing Wang discusses her research at the 44th Annual International Nursing & Midwifery Research and Education Conference hosted by the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland in Dublin.
During the conference, I was exposed to a range of nursing topics beyond my primary research focus, including nursing workforce shortages, nurses’ mental health, sustainable development in healthcare, the application of AI in nursing, integrated care models, and nursing education. These discussions broadened my perspective, helping me realise that nursing is not just about individual patient care but also involves critical aspects such as healthcare resource management, AI applications, and policy development. This experience has inspired me to integrate a more comprehensive perspective into my own research, enhancing its depth and impact.
Moreover, presenting at an international conference significantly strengthened my academic presentation and communication skills, as well as my confidence. Learning how to clearly and confidently articulate my research to others is a crucial professional skill. This also enhanced my confidence to defend my PhD viva, which was only a couple of months away. This experience reinforced my belief that academia is not only about conducting research but also about communication, shared learning, networking, and dissemination for broader impact on society.
Reflecting on this journey, I realise that I am undergoing an essential transformation—from being a PhD student to becoming an independent researcher and navigating the complex world of academia. I am immensely grateful to Dr Leah Macaden for her support and mentorship, which has been invaluable to my academic growth. Looking ahead, I hope to participate in more international academic exchanges, expand my research horizons, and engage in research that has a societal impact through collaboration and knowledge exchange with experts globally.
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