A Day in the Life of a PGR Student

नमस्ते 🙏🏻Everyone, I am Sachin Yadav from India (Bharat), a PhD Researcher at the School of Law, and your Postgraduate Research Officer at the University of Galway Students' Union 2024-25.

My day starts at 8 a.m. with a hearty breakfast—smoothies, banana shakes, or Indian parathas. Cooking is a passion of mine, and preparing delicious Indian cuisine in the morning or evening connects me to my roots and ensures a healthy, tasty start to my day.

Aalu paratha in a pan

Aalu paratha for breakfast

Aalu paratha for breakfast

My academics start from 10 am to 5 pm, firstly praying to God, and then I focus entirely on my PhD work. This involves reading academic articles, writing research papers, replying to my emails, and delving deeply into my chosen field. The library and various study spaces on campus provide an ideal environment for concentration and productivity. Throughout the day, I meet with fellow PhD Researchers. These interactions are invaluable for sharing ideas, gaining new perspectives, and staying connected with the research community.

A group of post-doctoral researchers around a table.

Meeting with post-doctoral researchers

Meeting with post-doctoral researchers

Maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life is crucial. University of Galway offers excellent facilities to support this. Every evening, from 6 pm to 8 pm, I head to the gym, steam/sauna and swimming for a workout session and refresh. These activities keep me physically fit, clear my mind, and reduce stress, ensuring I stay motivated and focused.

Five friends playing board games

Board games!

Board games!

In addition to my academic and community responsibilities, I run a YouTube channel called "vLAWging with Sachin Yadav." Every 2-3 weeks, I share podcasts and informative videos, providing valuable insights. Every Wednesday, I join other research scholars for board game sessions, a great way to unwind and bond with peers.

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Sachin posing for a photo with his film camera

Youtube filming

Youtube filming

Galway Indian food festival organised by Indian Society

Galway Indian food festival organised by Indian Society

Galway Indian food festival organised by Indian Society

A group of seven friends posing for a photo on the rocks in Salthill

Salthill with friends

Salthill with friends

Sachin and friends in the Quad at University of Galway

Meeting with friends

Meeting with friends

Balancing PhD research with personal wellness and community involvement is challenging but rewarding. University of Galway provides an environment conducive to thriving academically while nurturing personal growth and leadership skills. Each day brings new opportunities to learn, engage, and contribute to the vibrant university community. And every day I pray to God.

Of course, this does not look like every day, but my ideal day is like this.

Words and images thanks to Sachin Yadav.