How to Invite People to My Dissertation Committee

You will likely defend your dissertation in front of your committee.

A dissertation, also sometimes known as a thesis, is a paper written by a student in consideration for an MA or PhD degree. It is a detailed study of a well-researched topic within the field of the student's interest. A dissertation committee is typically formed by the student and her key advisor for the supervision of the paper's development, as well as the end examination process. Inviting the people you wish to serve on your dissertation committee can be approached in several ways.

Instructions

1. Select people who are knowledgeable about your research topic. Part of your committee's responsibility is to guide you in performing your research effectively. You are likely to find the greatest success if you invite people who are experts in your field. Ask your professors about their backgrounds and investigate where they have focused their own professional research in the past. When you inevitably get stuck on part of your dissertation research, these committee members serve as invaluable resources.

2. Find out who is supportive of your topic and invite them to get involved. Get to know your professors and determine who is likely to give you the most encouragement and helpful feedback. Professionalism and knowledge is important but personality matters as well. After a few sessions with prospective committee candidates, you should have a good idea who meshes well with your work style and who doesn't. Ask those who complement you to serve on your committee.

3. Solicit people who are accessible. Those assisting you can have the highest degree of professionalism and knowledge and a great personality, but if they are too busy to be available, they won't be able to help you achieve your goal. Take note of those who follow through on their commitments and invite them to be on your committee.

4. Approach a professor who balances your weaknesses. You want people on your committee who are agreeable and work well with you, but consider inviting someone who will challenge you and, perhaps, has strengths you lack. Challenging is different than arguing, however. You don't want to set yourself up for continual frustration and conflict. If you know you're a procrastinator, for instance, invite a professor who always has your papers graded ahead of time to be part of your committee. Her energy may rub off on you and help you find the motivation to complete your tasks on time.

Tips & Warnings

• Invite professors who will be impartial, not just those you are friendly with.

References

• UC Irvine Department of Education: What Is a Dissertation?
• All-But-Dissertation Survival Guide: Selecting Your Disseration Committee