Starting a PhD is a great achievement. Starting a PhD is also a daunting task. Juggling looming deadlines, addressing feelings of isolation and managing both work/life balance are all part of the journey. Adriano Macedo spoke to PhD candidate Devin Bissky Dziadyk about how he navigates these tough, but typical parts of the journey with positivity and practical tips.

Devin Bissky Dziadyk started his PhD with the Department of Economics in 2020. He’s become known for his easy laugh, sense of humor and helpful advice. Born in Saskatchewan, Bissky Dziadyk did high school in Alberta, his undergraduate degree in Quebec, then moved to Toronto, in 2015.

“I think of Devin as a hard-working PhD student who possesses the right combination of being curious, interested in new methods, and rigorous in the execution of his ideas,” said Professor Stephan Heblich, Bissky Dziadyk’s current thesis committee supervisor. “He is also a very eloquent and confident presenter. At the same time, he takes criticism well, always strives to improve, and doesn’t shy away from asking for help when he gets stuck.”

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