Don't do it to avoid getting a job or to get paid - should really, really, really want to do it, so you'll find a way #FOAphds

Funding - M3C is a consortium; automatically entered into College funding too #FOAphds

Easy to switch between part-time and full-time (for funding, maternity leave); no judgement #FOAphds

Treat application for place to study differently from funding application; easier to get a place to study, very hard to get funding #FOAphds

Make sure your supervisor understands your timeline, when you want to apply and start the course #FOAphds

Saturday workshop on M3C (application writing workshop) - go on their website #FOAphds

15 Jan = submission deadline & deadline for references; give referees lots of info (draft, CV) #FOAphds

4 Ps = Person = what you have to offer; Project = why it's good; Place = why UoB is the best place; Preparedness - skills & experience

Tell your referees not to be shy; they can be effusive in their praise! #FOAphds

Q: Returning to education after a break, only dealt with 1 academic staff member - who's the 2nd referee? #FOAphds

A: can you use your employer (if relevant) but academic better - anyone who's marked your work; more important to have good 2nd referee than co-supervisor #FOAphds

Get involved in the department - research culture, fora, journals, attending conferences & seminars #FOAphds

Have a look at Westmere (Edgbaston Park Rd) - great facilities, desk space, community #FOAphds

Can also work as a PG Teaching Assistant; another way to earn money & get teaching experience; a taste of academia #FOAphds

Can gain lots of experience beyond the PhD (journals, conferences, PG Ambassador); get involved with other things #FOAphds

Doing a PhD is fun too! Is stressful but is worth it. You don't have to do everything, especially at first. Don't get overwhelmed! Treat it as a job #FOAphds

Take a break from your studies - doesn't have to take over your life! #FOAphds

PhD doesn't have to build from your Masters; perhaps better chance of getting funding though #FOAphds

Don't worry about an overlap with your Masters thesis #FOAphds

Writing a proposal - be enthusiastic, and your proposal can change! #FOAphds