Let the giants whose shoulders you stand on provide a listening ear.
— Sit down, take a cup of tea, and talk to someone who has been through it all
Find your mentor
Empathy
A listening ear
Sometimes voicing your problems is the only help you need. Find someone whose been through it before to offer a willing ear
Advice
Ask an expert-by-Experience
Everything is new during your PhD track. Luckily, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel
Support
You don’t have to do it alone
Don’t suffer in silence. Reach out a hand and find the help you need
Book your appointment
Sign up for a one-on-one session with one of our retired mentors
Experiences by previous attendees
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Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
How do I schedule a session with one of the mentors?
Scheduling is easy. Click on the “Contact” button above or in the drop-down menu, find a time that fits for you and ensure your appointment!
Are sessions available online or in person?
Both options are available. Every other week a mentor will be physically present for those who desire face to face contact, and every week there is space for online sessions too. See the “Schedule an appointment” page for more information.
Mentorship style and sessions
What is the structure of these sessions?
The sessions will follow a conversational style. You’ll introduce yourself and then you can decide what to talk about. Imagine having a cup of tea with a grandparent!
What can we talk about during the sessions?
Anything you’d like. Prior to the session, you’ll receive an email from the mentor with information and a request for topics you’d like to talk about. This helps the mentors prepare and helps you feel understood.
Can the mentors help me when I have a structural problem with my supervisor?
The mentors have no power to assist in any way other than by talking to you directly. They can direct you in the direction you should go to find structural support.
About the PhD bench
For who is this service available?
For now this service is only available for PhD candidates at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and the Amsterdam University Medical Center. If you’re interested but from a different institute, reach out!
What is the aim of the project?
PhD mental health is at an all-time low. High work pressure, loneliness, imposter syndrome – PhD candidates rank amongst the highest burn-out numbers for any job. This project hopes to offer low-intervention support to PhD candidates and link them to retired professors to share their experience. Read more.
Language
What language could I request for this service?
These sessions can be provided in Dutch and English. More languages might be added as the project continues.
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Contact information:
PhD bench 