Getting a Summertime Jump on Your Thesis
A lot of planning goes into the crafting of a successful thesis, and some Amherst students have been getting a head start, weeks ahead of the start of classes.
For eight weeks this summer, students are gathering weekly for the Thesis Research Table. Following a light lunch at the Frost Library’s cafe, the group of about 20 students sets out to develop their skills as thesis writers.
Each week focuses on a different aspect of the research and writing process, m, with the thesis writers helping to set the agenda, says Blake Doherty, Frost’s research, instruction and outreach librarian. She manages the group with Jessica Kem, associate director of the College’s Writing Center.
Sessions may cover how to take notes during the research process, how to manage a heavy reading load or how to read more strategically,” Doherty said.
Such lessons take the form of presentations from faculty, staff and peers, as well as open discussions and workshops.
On a recent Thursday, the rising seniors in the group met with very recent thesis writers—members of the class of 2017—to get pointers on how to best put their projects together.
“We don’t need to be here over the summer, but it's very useful,” said Trevor Wright ’18, a physics major. He’s been using July to get better acquainted with the machinery involved in his studies, and he has already started in on data collection. He said the meetings in Frost have given him valuable tips on time management and organizing his work.