Eight Days Until My Viva

It is now official: on 18 September, I will have my viva. Last week I was in Coventry for a conference, but I also visited Leicester to discuss preparations. I am now ready.

Looking back, there were two defining moments which had a great impact on my thesis. The firstone happened at the beginning in October, 2013. I was sitting in Prof. Ross Parry’s office and had to define my subject from a museology point of view. It was the first time when I had to articulate myself as a museum professional. It was difficult. It was very difficult. And now: I am working in a museum, I have curated two exhibitions, a third one is under preparation, I am an advisor to a private collector in Hungary etc.

As for the second one, well, I hope you will all have at least one such moment in your life. Last Summer, I was waiting in the anteroom of the department. It was time for my progress report. And just as I was sitting there the whole PhD thesis appeared in my head. From chapter one to the conclusion. It was magical. And while the road to completion was still a bit bumpy, but I knew where I was heading, I knew what I wanted to write and how to write.

So last week I was on Coventry for the World Forum for Motor Museums. Sitting among like-minded collegaues from all over the world was great. Having the ability to present the big themes of my PhD aided my confidence. It is reassuring to know that I can now easily talk like a museum professional and my thesis seemed to be interesting for a lot participants.

I am now thinking about the future. Having a doctorate will enable to do me a lot of exciting things. I plan to write just one last blog entry next week after my viva. And then I will tell you more about this.