24th July 2008, 05:50 PM
I would also add that you should use the time you have to pick a dissertation supervisor. The best thing you can do is ask some of your PhD student tutors who makes a good supervisor in the department and who doesn't. A dissertation is a 2-person job: if you're both motivated you've got a chance of putting together a decent dissertation. If your supervisor is unable or unwilling to meet you, answer your emails or give you feedback on chapters then you'll be on to a loser from the start. Likewise, if he/she doesn't know or have an interest in your chosen topic, you'll find it tougher.