In this video, I’m basically sitting down with my former first-year PhD self and giving her the pep talk (and gentle shake) I really needed. I share the academic lifestyle lessons I’ve learned over the past couple of years, and I frame it as practical “do this early” advice for anyone who’s just starting out—because honestly, it’s all one big learning curve. We chat through the mindset shift of being a researcher first and a student second, why you need to remember you run the show (not your supervisor), and how time + information management will make or break your sanity. I also get into the stuff that’s a bit more emotional (but very real): imposter syndrome is a legitimate disease, burnout is going to happen, and you are not your PhD. Along the way, I talk about writing constantly, building critical thinking as an actual daily practice, and keeping a research journal so your brain isn’t carrying everything. It’s a cosy, honest “big sister” style rundown—PhD newbies, returning students, and anyone who’s mid-spiral included.