Aim of this page:
-In some parts of the world, or some individuals at the HEI’s believe that they don’t have to teach from heart and raise professionals because ”this young generation may take up their places later or become competitors in near future!!!” Or, more softer version is a belief that: “I have suffered a lot, let them suffer too!” I do not support this belief (practice). I encourage all-open-hearted, open minded, and care giving people to teach, to share, to promote knowledge and practice as better as possible. Maybe, we can not change the world, but we can change ourselves. World is a better place with more knowledgeable, sharing and caring people.
It is believed that, for doctoral students, peer support is one of the most effective practice to enhance the process and I agree with that. Therefore, in this part of the page, I will try to provide:
-HELP doctoral students who seek various information about the PhD process in Humanities and Social Sciences;
-To open a platform for doctoral students so that we discuss, learn and move forward;
-Raise questions and concerns globally regarding the doctoral education, pros and cons;
//For this purpose, I have started a FaceBook group called PhD Network Finland, welcome to join:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1872649449698823
Some reflection:
“A philosopher, a mathematician, and a sociologist were in a train in Scotland. They saw what appeared to be a black sheep. “All the sheep in Scotland must be black,” said the sociologist. “There’s at least one black sheep in Scotland,” said the mathematician. The philosopher said “It appears that one side of one sheep in Scotland is black.” Given any set of data there are (logically) many theories that adequately explain the data. Because the data are not sufficient to determine that only one theory can adequately explain it, the data are said to under determine the theory.” (Belk 2012.)
General PhD process In Finland from application to Graduation Ceremony with minor differences from University to University:
1. Finding a right supervisor from the University home page, looking at staff profiles.
2. Discussion with the supervising professor about the research proposal and start of doctoral studies.
3. Preparation of the application, usually consist of a research proposal, research plan, and required attachments.
4. Submission of application.
5. Decision on the study right.
6. Research work and completing studies: Research orientation, writing, publishing, conferences, mobility, 40 -60 ECTS, and writing the dissertation.
7. Submission of the manuscript to dissertation committee.
8. Appointment of preliminary examiners by dissertation committee.
9. Preliminary examination.
10. Granting permission to print the dissertation, choosing the opponents and custos by academic council.
11. Custos and opponent will agree the date for public examination.
12. Publishing dissertation, press release.
13. Public examination of the dissertation (defense) and statement of the opponent to the academic council.
14. Assessment of the dissertation by academic council.
15. Doctoral degree.
16. Conferment ceremony.
Knowledge is the key, network is the door. 
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