On PhD vivas and being a supervisor

Key Points

• Being a PhD supervisor often brings a sense of fear when preparing for student vivas, affecting the supervisor's confidence.
• Supervisors experience a mix of emotions, including pride and anxiety, as they guide students through the viva process.
• The relationship between supervisors and PhD students can significantly influence the outcomes of the viva examination.
• Experiencing a viva can be nerve-wracking for both students and their supervisors, highlighting the need for support and preparation.