Nurmukhanova Dana

Study program: Doctoral School of Education

Country: Kazakhstan

Period of studies at ELTE: 2017.09.01 - 2021.06.30

"I constantly develop organizational, self-management and thinking skills through my study and research progress."

Why ELTE?

PhD in Educational Science at ELTE is an exciting and challenging opportunity and an excellent match to my education, skills, and career interests. The program comprises of both course-based and research-based elements. The supervisors at the doctoral school can support my research work and introduce me into the field of professional and academic public life relying on the research findings, qualifications as researchers and teachers in their academic field, and participation in various international research projects.

What do you like most about being a student at ELTE?

Learning is my passion and I want to explore Western perspective and use the opportunity to learn in a diverse environment.

What are the challenges in your study program?

The doctoral program requires a set of milestones that the candidate needs to meet in the course of the studies. The milestones are intended to ensure that each student is making steady progress during the studies showing the ability to think critically, review the research methods, and analyze papers. This is not going to be easy, but I constantly develop organizational, self-management and thinking skills through my study and research progress.

How do you think your degree will help you in your life and career?

I wanted to be sure that my next step would give me opportunities for professional development, mentorship and personal growth as I see the degree program as a stepping stone to my career. When you gain a certain degree of confidence and think critically, you are able to see things that you can change. In my case, I want to improve school leadership in terms of new reforms as my country is facing the great demand for new ideas and professionals with dedication in the field of education. I want to use this to be able to help develop and revise educational policy.

Do you have any recommendations for future students at ELTE?

A PhD is difficult and uniquely challenging. A tiny number of people go on to do academic work at this level. It requires at least three years of hard work and dedication after I have already completed my master’s. But a PhD is also immensely rewarding. It’s your chance to make a genuine contribution to the sum of human knowledge and produce work that other researchers can build on in future.