How do I cope with the late realization that my thesis is not as strong as I thought?
I’ve been working on my undergraduate thesis for just over a year now, and until recently, I felt proud of the progress we were making. Our topic in computational musicology was quite exploratory—we started with a few random ideas and just let the research unfold. Since it was our first experience with research, we didn’t grasp the vast scope a project like this could encompass. We often joke that some of the components could easily warrant their own thesis.
While we conducted a fair amount of research to build a solid foundation, it turns out it wasn’t sufficient. In the last few months, I’ve come to realize that our core methodology needs significant improvement. This realization has come from encountering better studies and implementations, as well as gaining a broader perspective that has illuminated the flaws in our approach.
I still take pride in what we’ve accomplished, and my group members, adviser, and panelists have all been supportive of our work. However, I can’t shake the feeling that their views may stem from not exploring the literature as deeply as I have, making the issues more apparent to me.
On the positive side, I now have a clearer vision for how to strengthen our thesis. But with graduation just a few months away, it’s disheartening to acknowledge the gaps and shortcomings. I wish I could start over, but I understand that isn’t feasible.
I would appreciate any advice on how to navigate this situation—thank you!
It sounds like you’re experiencing a common dilemma for undergraduate researchers: the realization that your work isn’t as polished as you initially thought. First of all, it’s important to recognize that this is a normal part of the research process, especially in exploratory fields like computational musicology. What you’re feeling is part of the journey toward becoming a better researcher.
Here are some steps you can take to navigate this situation:
Acknowledge Your Learning Process: It’s important to remember that research is often iterative. The fact that you can see the flaws and areas for improvement means you’re developing critical thinking skills. This awareness is an essential part of academic growth.
Seek Feedback: Share your concerns with your advisor and peers. They might have insights into the validity of your feelings about the methodology. Sometimes, outside perspectives can reframe our anxieties and highlight strengths you might not see.
Focus on Strengths: While it’s hard to ignore the flaws, it’s also crucial to highlight what your thesis does well. If your group has produced innovative elements or solid findings, those are achievements worth recognizing and celebrating.
Identify Key Improvements: Instead of overhauling the entire project, focus on the most critical weaknesses in your methodology. Are there specific areas you can tweak or enhance without starting from scratch? Prioritize these improvements.
Use This Experience: Consider documenting your realization and your plans for future research. This can serve as a valuable reflection piece both for your current work and for your future projects. It’s a learning opportunity that can inform your next steps in your academic career.
Don’t Be Afraid to Acknowledge Limits: Realize that no thesis is perfect. It’s a common sentiment among researchers that their work will always have room for improvement. Allow yourself to embrace the journey rather than striving for perfection.
Take Care of Yourself: It’s easy to become demoralized or stressed in this kind of situation. Make sure you’re taking care of your mental health during this final stretch. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge.
In the end, what matters most is that you’ve gained knowledge and skills throughout this process. Whether this project is the best work you can produce or not, it’s still a significant step in your learning journey. Good luck, and remember that you’ve got the capacity to make the most of this situation!