Beyond the bench
PhD students and postdocs are busy bees, but what do they do to relax their brains? In this post some of the bloggers share their activities beyond the bench.
Spoiler alert: this post contains cute cats
Volunteering in the Doctoral Students’ Association (DSA)Â
By Ioanna Tsea
There is so much more to the PhD experience than our everyday work in the lab or in the office. In my case, fulfillment came from representing PhD students at the Doctoral Students’ Association (DSA) as a member of the Board. It is a challenging experience during which I have met fellow PhD students across KI and together we brainstorm on ways to improve the PhD experience in KI.
The fun part comes when organising social events for doctoral students to get to know each other, from hikes, board game nights, parties – you name it! Of course, I participate in the events as well as help organize them which is a win-win for someone like me who gains energy from being in the company of people.Â
Being active
By Luca Love
I find solace in sport and physical activity. Whether it is a gym session, hiking or a team sport its always good for physical and mental health to be physically active. Try playing different sports with different people and there will be a combination that works well!
Purrfect relaxation
By Natalie von der Lehr
When I come home, I am often greeted by my two cats. According to them, I cannot get out of my shoes and coat fast enough to provide food and cuddles. So after feeding the beasts we move to the living room and sofa, I have a book, a snack and the remote controls for the TV ready and do my job as a good hooman. Scratching heads, rubbing bellies and telling them how beautiful and superior they are. We know, they say. And don’t you dare open the computer, check your mail and continue working.
Not everybody can have a pet, maybe you live in accommodation that does not allow animals or you won’t know what to do with your furbaby once you finish your PhD or postdoc and will possibly relocate. In that case – visits a friend with a pet, offer your services as a cat or dog sitter for colleagues who are away for the weekend or vacation, or why not volunteer at an animal shelter. Â
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