College of Social Sciences

Peer-to-Peer Workshop Series: Writing Retreat

Why did you want to take part in the Peer-to-Peer workshop programme?

Paola: The Peer-to-Peer programme provided a fantastic opportunity to materialise my workshop idea. It supported me with guidelines and funding to run the Writing retreats.

What inspired you to run the 'Writing Retreat' and what were your project aims?

Paola: I experienced a sense of achievement after joining a writing retreat for the first time. This feeling inspired me to organise intimate and inspiring writing retreats. The primary objectives of the Writing Retreat are to enhance productivity by allowing participants to dedicated uninterrupted time to their writing projects, thereby fostering focus and progress. It also encourages reflective thinking through self-awareness of the challenges and accomplishments that the writing process presents. Ultimately, the writing retreat aims to foster a supportive writing community by creating spaces where participants can exchange ideas, share experiences, and build connections with fellow researchers.

Take me through the process of setting up and running your workshop.

Paola: To successfully run a writing retreat, many people are involved behind the scenes, and it requires extensive preparation. The first step is to establish clear objectives and a format for the event. I received significant support from Dr. Chin, the writing specialist in the research development team. Once the workshop was approved, the PGR directors and the administrative team in the School of Law played a crucial role in making the project happen. They supported the workshop with funding, booking venues, organising catering, and providing feedback to ensure the writing retreats were inclusive. Additionally, at the college level, I received valuable assistance from Dr. Dickon and Dr. Balgabekova, who contributed by providing guidelines, funds for catering and promoting the event through the college newsletter and Inkpath.

What lessons did you earn through hosting the 'Writing Retreat' workshop series?

Paola: The first lesson I would like to highlight is the vaue of teamwork. I learned that in order for each workshop to happen, we need the help and support of different departments and individuals. Assertive communication was crucial for building trust among all parties involved in making the workshop a reality. 

The second lesson is that the UofG PGR community is very supportive. I learned that it is a safe space to demonstrate leadership, and the community values and appreciates your commitment and efforts in organising the workshop.

If a fellow PHD student was on the fence about taking part in the Peer-to-Peer workshop programme, what would you tell them?

Paola: I would say to my colleague to go for it. They will find great satisfaction in bringing a valuable workshop to the community and demonstrate to themselves how brave they can be.

I learned that it is a safe space to demonstrate leadership, and the community values and appreciates your commitment and efforts - Paola Alarcón-López