I submitted my paper abstract for Event 2024: Lancaster Hub at the end of January that year, and with the conference scheduled for late September, it felt like it was a long way off. My plan was to have a draft of my second PhD chapter ready by the time of the conference, with my paper focusing on one element of my research into séance tables. As is often the case with research, things didn’t go exactly to plan. While I didn’t finish the chapter, I did manage to complete the paper, and the process of writing it turned out to be incredibly valuable.
Writing the paper helped me work through my arguments and gain feedback from scholars outside of my supervisory team. Thanks to their input, I now feel ready to expand the paper’s ideas into a full section of my PhD. However, it took some time to build this confidence.
The day started early with postgraduate and early-career researcher (doctoral student/ECR) workshops, which were warm and welcoming. These sessions allowed us to meet one another and discuss the next steps in academia—covering topics like journal writing, book proposals, and navigating the elusive English lecturer role.
The conference opened with a keynote by Victorian Studies heavyweight, Professor John Bowen, which set the tone for the intellectual depth and rigour of the event. The range of papers presented was impressive, with discussions covering everything from periodicals and literature to belief systems, the role of AI, class aesthetics, and theatrical transmediations. Not only was the content educational, but it also provided insight into how to effectively deliver a paper and clearly signpost arguments.
As someone in the early stages of my research, I sometimes felt out of my depth. However, the conference fostered a supportive ethos, with doctoral students often encouraged to ask the first questions. I was nervous about delivering my paper, especially in front of an experienced panel of academics working on the supernatural. But the audience was incredibly generous, and the panel had a lively, positive energy. The questions I received helped me broaden my thinking, particularly around the role of neo-Victorian fiction beyond the revisionist agenda.
Socialising with academics during the breaks was another highlight. Not only did I receive valuable advice on my project, but I also got tips on how to navigate the challenges of completing a PhD.
For anyone hesitant about delivering a paper at a conference outside of their university, I highly recommend giving it a go. I found the experienced academics to be supportive and encouraging throughout the process.
I returned home thrilled that I had delivered my paper and excited to tackle the extensive reading list inspired by the other presentations. I’m already looking forward to attending this year!
