BiOrbic PhD Researchers Swap Their Usual Work Desks for Waterside Inspiration at Annual Writing Retreat
Last month, BiOrbic PhD researchers swapped their usual work desks for lakeside views and uninterrupted writing time during this year’s Annual Writing Retreat at The Hodson Bay Hotel.
The three-day getaway offered the students a chance to step away from the distractions of daily life and focus entirely on their writing goals; from finishing thesis chapters, preparing publications or tackling long-delayed grant applications.
Each year, the retreat is about more than simply getting words on the page. BiOrbic Graduate Research & Training Manager, Dr. Grace Vaughan, creates a supportive and relaxed atmosphere where participants can share the realities of PhD life, celebrate achievements and commiserate over an inevitable research hurdle.
After departing from the UCD Bus & Coach Terminal early on Wednesday morning, attendees settled into a busy schedule of writing sessions balanced with social activities and wellbeing events. Goal-setting workshops helped participants map out their targets for the retreat before focus time began.
Evenings brought a lighter side to the programme, with researchers enjoying a refreshing drinks making masterclass, barbecue dinner and games after a productive first day.
Caption: BiOrbic researchers enjoying kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and a three course dinner, as part of the social activities during the three day writing retreat earlier this month.
Thursday’s schedule paired intensive writing sessions with outdoor activities on Lough Ree, where participants took to the water for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding before winding down with lakeside yoga. A three-course dinner at L’Escale Restaurant rounded off the day.
Alongside the writing sessions, attendees also had time to enjoy scenic walks, gym facilities and swimming, helping create an environment designed to refresh both mind and motivation.
Grace Vaughan has said “the retreat continues to provide an important opportunity for PhD students to reconnect with their work in a positive, encouraging environment, proving that academic productivity and wellbeing should go hand in hand”.
