Doctoral journey isn’t just about the destination – it’s about who you become along the way

Belem ROJAS

LinkedIn, ThesesFr

Merci beaucoup pour votre témoignage

Can you tell us about your background and why you decided to do a PhD?

The path to academic excellence is never linear. After completing my Master's degree in Applied and Industrial Mathematics in Mexico, I immersed myself in both public and private sectors for nearly two years, working at the intersection of Statistics and Technology. This experience didn't just build my professional skills—it ignited something deeper: a burning desire to apply technical knowledge to real-world challenges that could transform lives and communities.

What drives me is the magic of bringing abstract theories to life—making the invisible visible and converting complex mathematical concepts into tangible solutions. This passion for impact led me to a pivotal decision point in my career journey.

I decided to pursue the highest level of academic achievement: a doctoral degree. Through determination and focus, I secured a prestigious scholarship for doctoral studies in Robotics and Automation in France. Without hesitation, I can say this became one of the most transformative chapters of my life—opening doors to cutting-edge research, international collaboration, and the opportunity to push boundaries in ways I never imagined possible.

For those considering this path, remember: your unique perspective and dedication can create ripples of innovation that extend far beyond the laboratory or classroom. The world needs more visionaries willing to dive deep into complex problems and emerge with solutions that matter.

How do you stay motivated when research feels overwhelming or uncertain?

Research journeys inevitably lead us through valleys of doubt and mountains of challenges. When the path becomes foggy and motivation wanes, I've discovered several powerful strategies to reignite that essential spark:

Strategic breaks are not luxuries—they're necessities. Extended periods of studying academic papers can lead to mental fatigue, affecting both comprehension and creative thinking. It is beneficial to balance research with regular breaks such as a walk outside, coffee with colleagues, or engaging in enjoyable activities. These breaks serve as mental resets that can facilitate new insights.

Structure creates freedom. Visualizing my workflow with a personal Kanban board helps manage competing ideas. Tracking tasks and milestones turns abstract anxieties into manageable steps, reminding me that progress is being made.

Remember: uncertainty in research isn't a bug—it's a feature. The most transformative discoveries emerge from navigating these challenging terrains with resilience and purpose.

What helped you push through self-doubt or imposter syndrome during your PhD?

The shadow of imposter syndrome falls across virtually every doctoral journey at some point. That whispering voice suggesting you don't belong among scholarly minds or questioning whether your research contributions have genuine value—it's a nearly universal experience, though rarely discussed openly.

Sharing my insecurities and doubts with trusted confidants brought emotional relief and perspective. These discussions showed that even respected colleagues face similar struggles, highlighting that imposter feelings are a common reaction to intellectual challenges, not a true measure of ability.

Dividing the daunting doctoral journey into daily tasks changed my approach. I created a system to track small, achievable goals each day or week. Marking them off showed progress and made achievements visible, boosting motivation.

As the ancient wisdom reminds us: Rome wasn't built in a day—and neither is doctoral research. The seemingly small stone you carefully place today joins countless others to eventually form something magnificent that will stand the test of time.

Why was it all worth it — and what would you say to someone afraid to take the first step?

Looking back on my doctoral journey, I can confidently say that every challenge, every late night, every moment of uncertainty was profoundly worth it. The transformation extends far beyond the academic credential itself.

On a personal level, completing a PhD represents an extraordinary achievement that forever changes how you view your own capabilities. The experience of pursuing advanced research in another country—France, in my case—surrounded by brilliant minds from diverse cultural backgrounds, fundamentally expanded my worldview in ways impossible to quantify. These cross-cultural connections became not just professional contacts but lifelong friendships that continue to enrich my life.

Professionally, the PhD journey equipped me with a sophisticated toolkit that transcends technical expertise. I developed the ability to adapt methodologies to novel scenarios, present complex information with clarity, synthesize intricate theories, and—perhaps most valuably—translate technical concepts for varied audiences. This versatility in communication has proven invaluable throughout my career.

Subscribe to reputable digital journals and blogs in your area of interest. Identify leading research centers with strong track records in your field, particularly those fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and industry partnerships.

The doctoral path isn't about immediate perfection or certainty—it's about taking that crucial first step from a place of genuine intellectual passion. So, take the first step!