On 15 March 2026, while browsing a local charity shop, I came across a copy of How to Get a PhD: A Handbook for Students and Their Supervisors by Estelle M. Phillips and D. S. Pugh.
What made the moment slightly surreal was that only a few weeks ago I had been looking at buying this exact book online for £28. I decided to hold off at the time.
Today it was sitting on the shelf in front of me for £2.
Sometimes the universe has a quiet way of nudging you in the right direction.
In January 2027, I’ll be starting my PhD journey, researching how AI-supported learning tools — such as educational podcasts — can influence student engagement and learning outcomes in Computer Science education.
Finding this book today felt like a small but symbolic moment: a reminder that every long academic journey begins with curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to climb.
For £2, it felt like a very good place to start.
#PhDJourney #AIinEducation #ComputerScienceEducation #EdTech #HigherEducation #Research #LifelongLearning #AcademicJourney
