‘Embarking on a PhD was an investment in myself’

Kevin Saudé is currently studying a PhD in the Department of Politics and Public Administration in UL’s Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. Here, Kevin gives an insight into his PhD experience and his plans for the next stage of his career.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m from a rural area in Eastern France, but I've been living in Ireland for such a long time that someone once referred to me as the "Irish guy with a French accent". When I set foot in Limerick over 15 years ago, never in a million years did I envisage the trajectory I am currently following. I was initially pursuing a career in aviation and came to Ireland to learn English for a couple of months. Due to a series of twists and turns, I somehow ended up getting a Bachelor’s degree in Politics at UL, where I’ve been happily studying for 10 years.

You are currently undertaking a PhD in UL's Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; could you tell us about your area of research?

My main interest is electoral politics and public opinion: who votes for whom, and why, what is the nature and evolution of the link between voters and parties. I was struck by the fundamental transformations of European electoral politics since the 2008 so-called Great Recession, characterised by the spectacular decline of traditional parties and the rise of populism. My doctoral research looks at the impact of these transformation on voters’ negativity towards parties. Ireland is perhaps no stranger to this sea change in partisan electoral politics.

What initially drew you to undertake a PhD? 

Two reasons: Students usually resent the Final Year Project, but I personally embraced it. The working relationship with my supervisor Dr Rory Costello, a senior lecturer in Politics, proved both productive and enjoyable, but this experience also brought to light certain shortcomings in my skillset that I felt compelled to address.

The second reason is more profound. Halfway through my degree, I was confronted with cognitive and physical disability due to the onset of MS, and this catastrophic episode taught me two lessons: our brain is like a muscle that needs to be stimulated, and physical work was no longer a viable option – and neither was a career in aviation, for that matter. Besides my obvious passion for political science, embarking on a PhD was an investment in myself.

Could you give an insight into what a typical day is like for you as a PhD student?

No such thing! Every journey is different but, generally speaking, a PhD compounds five or six different jobs. The range of activities is vast:

• Writing (papers, dissertations, opinion pieces)
• Reading (new publications, books)
• Upskilling in research methods
• Presenting at conferences and seminars
• Teaching lectures and/or tutorials
• Grading
• Administrative tasks
• Drinking buckets of coffee!
• Networking and collaborating

Bottom line: I don’t recall ever dragging my feet into work.

What have been the highlights of your time doing the PhD?

I was very fortunate to take up the role of module leader for my favourite module when I was an undergrad. I embraced every single moment!

What would you say to someone who is considering undertaking a PhD?

Much can be gleaned online on how to choose the right supervisor, the right department/college, or how to write a good research proposal. My two cents apply to both prospective and current (me included!) doctoral students: Why? Only you can answer this question, keep it etched in your brain and trust the process (and your supervisor!).

What point are you at currently on your PhD journey, what is the next step, and what are your goals going forward in your career?

I’m currently in my final year, concentrating as much as possible on finishing the dissertation. After 10 years in UL, it’s quite difficult to envisage life post-PhD, even more so when the thesis has not been submitted. But I hope to be hired as a post-doc researcher somewhere soon because, believe it or not, a doctoral project barely scratches the surface!

What are some of the biggest lessons or skills that your PhD experience has taught you?

Not sure if it’s from ageing or studying alongside talented and interesting colleagues; but embracing nuance and acknowledging uncertainty ought to be seen as an ideal.

Are you a current MA student who would like to further your research expertise?

On Thursday, 21 March at 11am, the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences will hold an informal event for those considering undertaking a PhD within the faculty. Dr Niamh Lenahan, AHSS Research Co-Ordinator will be on hand to answer any queries, along with postgraduate researchers from schools and departments within the faculty who will share insights into their experiences of undertaking a PhD. The event will be held in the Kate O’Brien Room (C1-079), Main Building. Due to a limited number of places, those interested are kindly asked to complete this form.