Black History Month blog: Rimsha Taqdee, co-creator of the That’s Me! Project

Why a PhD is for Me: My Journey into Research on Vascular Dementia

In this blog for Black History Month, PhD student of Psychology, and co-creator of the That’s Me! Project, Rimsha Taqdees, shares their story as to why they chose the path of dementia research. 

Embarking on a PhD is a monumental decision, one that shapes not only your career but also your personal growth and understanding of a subject you are passionate about. For me, the path to a PhD in Psychology, focusing on the interrelations between pain and cultural factors on cognitive task performance in vascular dementia, has been both challenging and rewarding. Here, I share my story — why I chose this path, the obstacles I encountered, and the positives I've experienced along the way.

A deep-seated interest in dementia research

My journey towards a PhD began with a profound interest in dementia, a condition that affects millions worldwide yet still harbours many unanswered questions. While Alzheimer's disease often dominates the conversation, vascular dementia is an area that remains under-researched. This gap in the literature sparked my curiosity and fuelled my determination to contribute to this field. I wanted to explore how pain and cultural factors influence cognitive performance in those suffering from vascular dementia, hoping that my research could lead to better understanding and improved interventions for these individuals.

Overcoming barriers and challenges

One of the most significant challenges I faced was my lack of familiarity with the procedures and expectations of a PhD program. Coming from a BAME background, where few people in my personal or family network had pursued higher education, let alone a PhD, I often found myself navigating this journey without a clear roadmap. Learning the intricacies of academic research, understanding the various stages of a PhD, and figuring out how to manage my time effectively were all skills I had to develop on the go.

Initially, I was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information and the steep learning curve. Although I was somewhat familiar with the process of writing research proposals, designing experiments, and conducting literature reviews, the reality proved to be far more hectic than I had anticipated. I often felt like I was navigating a storm of tasks, and the lack of a mentor within my personal circle added to the challenge. However, I sought guidance from my supervisors and peers, attended workshops, and gradually built the necessary skills and confidence to navigate my PhD journey.

The slow progress typical of scientific research often tested my resilience. The iterative nature of experiments, data collection, and analysis means that breakthroughs are infrequent, and patience is crucial. At times, it felt like I was taking two steps forward and one step back, but these experiences taught me the value of perseverance and maintaining a long-term perspective. Each setback was an opportunity to learn and refine my approach, and over time, I developed a more robust and systematic methodology.

The positives of pursuing a PhD

Despite the hurdles, pursuing a PhD has been incredibly rewarding. One of the most significant positives is the opportunity to delve deeply into a subject I am passionate about. The intellectual stimulation and the sense of contributing to a field that can potentially improve people's lives are immensely fulfilling. Knowing that my research could lead to better understanding and interventions for those with vascular dementia gives me a profound sense of purpose and motivation.

Another positive aspect has been the development of a wide range of skills. From critical thinking and problem-solving to advanced research methodologies and academic writing, the skills I have acquired are invaluable. These skills are not only applicable to my research but also transferable to various professional settings. The ability to analyse complex data, synthesize information, and communicate findings effectively will undoubtedly benefit me in any future career path I choose.

As a PhD student, I also had various opportunities to teach and help deliver lectures and workshops to university students, ranging from foundation to master's level. This experience significantly boosted my confidence and provided me with valuable teaching skills. Engaging with students, preparing course materials, and delivering content helped me develop a deeper understanding of my subject matter and improved my ability to convey complex concepts in an accessible manner. Teaching has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my PhD journey, as it allowed me to share my passion for psychology and dementia research with others, and it gave me a sense of fulfilment knowing that I was contributing to the academic growth of my students.

These teaching opportunities also made me feel good about my professional development and the experience I was gaining for possible roles I could pursue after my PhD. Whether I decide to continue in academia or explore other career paths, the skills and experience I have gained through teaching will be invaluable. It has also opened up potential avenues for future collaborations and networking within the academic community.

Finally, the sense of accomplishment that comes with progressing through the various stages of a PhD—from initial proposal to conducting research and writing up the findings—is unparalleled. Each milestone reached is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of knowledge. The journey has not only expanded my intellectual horizons but also fostered personal growth and resilience.

Conclusion

Choosing to pursue a PhD was driven by my passion for dementia research and the desire to make a meaningful contribution to this field. As a BAME individual, this journey has been fraught with unique challenges, but the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. I have grown both professionally and personally, and I am excited about the future possibilities my PhD will unlock. For anyone considering this path, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, my advice is to stay curious, be resilient, and remember that the pursuit of knowledge is a journey worth undertaking.