An illuminating PhD journey

Why did you choose UiA?

Usually, I carefully strategize my life goals, assessing strengths and weaknesses. Pursuing a Ph.D. I needed to immerse myself in research and professional writing. So, I started to work with some professors and a PhD candidate in University of Agder to write papers and do research. When I sought information about the University of Agder, I was fascinated by its diversity and its supportive atmosphere and its many graduates who got good jobs inside and outside academia. Therefore, UiA and its School of Business and Law became attractive and a cornerstone in my strategic search for a PhD program. Consequently, after publishing some papers, I applied for admission to University of Agder.

What did you conduct research on, and why?

I conducted research on the entrepreneurial tradition institutionalized in a family and society. The reason for conducting this research is that I had been working as a manager and member of the board in a family business for many years, although I was an outsider of family business. During my research and experience academically and practically, I realized that families can play different roles in entrepreneurial life. The role of the family of entrepreneurship can be legitimized in society. Thereby, I found a novel and a promising research aim. 

How was it to be a PhD candidate at UiA?

Embarking on a doctoral journey, especially internationally, challenges every aspect of your life. It's akin to a competitive arena where every moment back and forth between success and failure. Amidst the pressures, support becomes paramount. Picture yourself in this arena, far from home, with only a few cheering voices familiar to your ears. Yet, even a small chorus of encouragement can drive you forward. At the University of Agder, I found my family—supportive, empowering, and compassionate. They provided the fuel: motivation, knowledge, strength, confidence, and peace, guiding me across the finishing line.

What do you think of the PhD program at the School of Business and Law?

The UiA School of Business and Law has provided me with a well-structured and illuminating path since the beginning of my PhD journey. It offers a meticulously designed curriculum that not only cultivates academic skills but also nurtures social and life skills. PhD Students can tailor their academic portfolios with the good mix of an organized program and flexibility.

In the diverse and international environment of the University of Agder, PhD students have the opportunity to expand their networks and collaborate with brilliant scholars and institutions worldwide. The professional and friendly atmosphere fosters mutual support among PhD students, aiding in each other’s progress.

As a graduate of the University of Agder’s PhD program, I've learned valuable lessons in supportiveness, seizing opportunities, recognizing capabilities, and expanding international academic networks. Efficient time management and attentive listening to academic peers are among the skills honed. Moreover, the university provides a nurturing academic environment, complete with equipped coffee machine, kitchens, and offices. So, I would live comfortably academically with a hot cup of coffee in hand and a host of ideas in my mind.

The culmination of this journey is marked by a delightful and professional PhD defense day, where the University of Agder ensures each PhD candidate feels a sense of pride and accomplishment. Our skilled PhD administrator will introduce you proudly, “our candidate ...” ! Then you can strongly and motivately defend your PhD dissertation.

What is the most important experience you have made throughout the period?

Without a doubt, meeting respected professors (even some of them were my academic heroes), appreciated and kind people, brilliant scholars, talented colleagues, and skilled researcher was my honor and pleasure. As a newborn researcher, I was confused and even shocked at the beginning of my PhD journey, however, I found my space with the contributions and support of my colleagues, my supervisor, my friends and our PhD program in the international academic environment.

What career opportunities have you gotten after finishing the PhD? 

I graduated in August 2023, and currently I work as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Chemnitz University of Technology in Germany, in addition to being a Research Fellow at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. I have also continued by affiliation with UiA as a research associate/alumn. I am also a member of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor in South Africa and has co-authored several national reports and special reports on digitalization, sustainability, and women entrepreneurship for GEM. My scholarly research is focused on the entrepreneurial tradition in a family and institutionalized in a society, the entrepreneurial family, and innovation, digitalization, and sustainability.