HDR Resilience: Self-Awareness in the PhD Confirmation of Candidature

The Higher Degree by Research (HDR) journey can be exhilarating and perplexing for postgraduate students.In postgraduate research there are many milestones that students must pass to ensure that they are deemed capable of completing a quality PhD and contributing to knowledge in their discipline on a specific topic.In the Higher education sector in Australia, the Confirmation of Candidature (CoC) is the first milestone that HDR students need to pass.As scholars we are aware of the vast amount of literature that evaluates how postgraduate students navigate the uncertain pathway to the PhD.The aim of this paper is to reflect on the CoC experience and impact of navigating the milestone in the HDR journey in an Australian context.In addition, it is hoped that by sharing this experience the author will help students navigate the overt and hidden requirements embedded in university education.A carefully prepared presentation may still require amendments from an academic panel to strengthen project design.If students do not pass this milestone, the author wishes to offer suggestions for how to understand what is required and move forward to achieve a strong project and pass this milestone.What is the Confirmation (CoC) process?Why is CoC important in the PhD or MPhil candidature journey?How does one prepare for the CoC presentation?What will you gain from the CoC process?The paper will use an educational practice model such as Gibbs' 1988 reflection model, educational theories and research literature relating to HDR students' experiences, to support the author's reflective observations and assist future students.