Course

First Year Retreat

Dates 18 - 20 March 2026
Location Parkhotel de Bosrand, Ede
ECTS 0,9

PE&RC First Year Retreat: Kickstart Your PhD Journey

Starting a PhD is an exciting step but it can also feel a bit overwhelming at times. Our First year Retreat is designed to help you get a better sense of what lies ahead and how to make the most of your PhD experience.

During the retreat, you’ll learn:

  • What to expect during the PhD process
  • How to avoid common pitfalls and setbacks
  • What’s needed to complete a successful PhD within four years
  • How the Graduate School supports you throughout your journey 


Connect and share
The retreat is also about meeting other PhD candidates, sharing experiences, and learning from each other. You’ll have the chance to build a network of peers you can turn to for advice and support, something especially valuable for international PhDs and those new to their University.

Learn, relax, and have Fun
It’s not all about work! There will be plenty of time for social and leisure activities, giving you a chance to relax and get to know your fellow PhDs in an informal way.

So join us for a few inspiring days to learn, connect, and start your PhD journey with confidence!

Day 1: The PdD trip
9.00 - 9.30h

Arrival at the hotel for all participants

  • Get settled
  • Coffee/Tea
9.30 - 10.45h

Welcome & introduction to the retreat

  • Introduction PhD programme coordinators
  • Programme of the retreat
  • What are your expectations?
  • Presenting yourself 
10.45 - 11.00hShort break
11.00 - 12.30h

PE&RC and the PhD Programme

  • Introduction PE&RC
  • The PE&RC PhD Programme
12.30 - 13.30hLunch
13.30 - 15.00h

Doing a PhD

  • Why do you want to do a PhD?
  • The PhD trip: challenges along the way
  • Introduction to the SWOT Analysis
    • Splitting in groups
    • Fill in your SWOT personally
15.00 - 15.15hShort break
15.15 - 17.00h

The Duplo game

  • Workshop on working in a team and related issues (responsibilities, collaboration, (intercultural) communication and deadlines)
  • Reflection on Duplo game: communication, planning and management
17.00 - 18.00hDrinks in the bar / Leisure time
18.00 - 19.00h Dinner
19.30 - ...Evening games

 

Day 2: Managing your PhD to become a good Scientist (Tackling challenges – the road to solutions)
8.00 - 9.00hBreakfast
9.00 - 10.30hSeek to understand before you are understood. The heart of communication 
10.30 - 10.45hShort break
11.00 - 12.30h

SWOT Analysis continued

  • Finalise personal SWOT
  • Start group discussion of the SWOT
12.30 - 13.30hLunch
13.30 - 16.30h

Outdoor activity

  • Walking and talking about the SWOT
  • Group assignment
16.30 - 17.30hPresentation of group assignment from the outdoor activity
17.30 - 18.30hPresentation by PE&RC PhD Council (PPC)
18.30 - 24.00h Dinner, Pub quiz & Party

 

Day 3: Your PhD plan
8.30 - 9.30hBreakfast
9.30 - 10.30hJump-in theater
10.30 - 10.45hShort break
10.45 - 12.30h

The SWOT Analysis of you as a PhD candidate

  • Compilation group discussion/report
  • Plenary feedback
  • Tackling challenges
12.30 - 13.30hLunch
13.30 - 15.00h
 
  • Making a plan of action for your PhD
  • Plenary discussion / Take-aways
  • Reflection on your expectations
  • Last round of questions, synthesis and closing of the retreat


Logistical issues
Bring outdoor clothing and a rain coat, since we will be taking a walk in the forest. All meals are included, drinks at the bar are at your own cost. 

The retreat is free of charge for all PE&RC PhD candidates (all others pay 200 euros). Do note that beverages in the bar and snacks are on your own account. 

PE&RC Cancellation Conditions
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS read the Cancellation conditions for PE&RC courses and activities.
Please note that if you cancel within a week and a half of the Retreat or are a no show we will charge you 200 Euros cancelation fee.

* Indicates required field
Gender
Dietary restrictions (catering is vegetarian by default)
Terms and condition of cancellation
more info

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