An Interview with our 1st Dual PhD student
In 2016, while I was completing my Master’s degree in Nankai University, I became acquainted with the Glasgow-Nankai Joint Graduate School (JGS). At that moment, I admire the students who participate in such a unique and exciting programme. Four years later, I became aware of the launch of the Dual PhD programme. Although I was delighted to hear of this opportunity, I could not help but reflect on the fact that I had just begun my academic journey, had a limited understanding of my field of study, and was still in the process of refining my research skills. Nonetheless, I considered the Dual PhD programme as a precious gift for my doctoral years, assuming I was accepted.
Now, in 2023, here I am seated at the desk in the Advanced Research Centre at Glasgow University, tracing the path that led me here. It started with my first interactions with the JGS and the School of Modern Languages and Cultures (SMLC) in Glasgow. Subsequently, I contacted the Programme Director of the Glasgow-Nankai Translation Studies MSc, Dr Enza De Francisci. In my introductory email, I provided a comprehensive overview of my profile, detailing my academic experiences and research interests. In a timely and gracious manner, Dr De Francisci responded to my email, and her positive feedback encouraged me to draw up a research proposal related to my thesis. Notably, given her existing research commitments in a variety of fields, she expeditiously facilitated the process of finding two suitable supervisors who could offer pertinent guidance and direction towards my research topic. This invaluable support served as a pivotal stepping stone in my pursuit of a dual PhD degree. This was followed by the submission of my research proposal in September 2020, which culminated in the unconditional offer I received in February 2021. Reflecting on this path, I realised that I was one of the fortunate ones not only because I had access to this priceless opportunity, but also because my thesis and supervisors provided me with the invaluable opportunity. From a regular student at Nankai to a PhD candidate, I am today at Glasgow University. I am grateful.
During a seminar, my supervisor in China, Professor LYU Shisheng stated that the Dual PhD programme provided students with a fresh and unique perspective on their studies, thereby facilitating significant academic progress. I concur wholeheartedly, as all three of my supervisors, including Dr Jonathan Evans (SMLC) and Dr Craig Smith (School of Social and Political Sciences), have worked in close collaboration to provide valuable assistance with my thesis on the century-long Chinese translation of Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations. This has been one of the most gratifying aspects of my academic journey thus far. Usually, students who study abroad for one or two years do not have the benefit of their supervisors at home and abroad being within the same academic circle. Nonetheless, my supervisors in China and Scotland have made concerted efforts to communicate with each other and work jointly on my thesis since I received the offer from Glasgow University. This exceptional collaboration was evident from the very beginning, allowing me to immediately begin writing my thesis upon my arrival in the United Kingdom.
In addition, I am extremely appreciative of the support and guidance provided to me by my Glasgow supervisors. Dr Evans has been a constant source of support throughout my doctoral studies, offering insightful perspectives on translation studies and providing invaluable guidance. Similarly, Dr Smith has been invaluable in assisting me to comprehend Adam Smith's complex ideas, particularly in light of the upcoming 300th-anniversary celebration in 2023. Both of my supervisors have displayed exceptional professionalism, generosity, patience, and kindness, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to my success in my doctoral thesis and career development. It is truly uplifting to have supervisors who provide such unconditional care and support, and I am keenly aware of the rare privilege it is to work with individuals who genuinely care about their students' lives. For this, I am always grateful to them for their precious contributions to my academic and personal development.