Programs
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Research Mentorship Program
Mock Defense Arrangements
Research Writing Boot Camps
Research Talks
Consult Sessions
Research Talks
Research Talks at VRF101 are carefully curated, member-driven conversations that respond directly to the real needs and questions of our academic community. Topics for each session are either suggested by members or arise organically from previous discussions, common challenges, and frequently asked questions during our consult forums and peer support sessions. This ensures that each talk is timely, relevant, and anchored in the lived research journeys of participants across diverse academic disciplines and institutions.
The focus areas of past Research Talks have included a wide range of core research processes and practical academic concerns, such as:
– Research conceptualisation
– Conducting effective literature reviews
– Designing and justifying research methodology
– Data analysis and presentation of findings
– Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its role in research
– How to prepare for and conduct research defenses
– Working effectively with research supervisors
These topics have consistently drawn strong participation due to their practical orientation and the safe, supportive space VRF101 provides for open dialogue.
To accommodate the busy schedules of researchers, most talks are held early in the morning (6:30–8:30 AM) on public holidays and (a few) Sundays, with a few sessions rolling out on Sunday evening (7:00–9:00 PM). The sessions are designed to be highly interactive and engaging, often featuring guided sharing, open Q&A, and peer-to-peer learning. This participatory format not only allows members to express their challenges and receive real-time support but also builds a sense of belonging and mutual encouragement that has become the hallmark of VRF101.
Consult Sessions
Consult Sessions at VRF101 are informal, peer-driven gatherings designed to build deep and honest engagement, support, and motivation among researchers. Unlike Research Talks, these sessions do not feature structured presentations or expert-led content. Instead, members join simply to engage: sharing what they are working on, the challenges they are facing, and drawing encouragement from others who are also navigating the research journey. The environment is spontaneous yet supportive, allowing participants to express their concerns freely and receive guidance and affirmation from fellow scholars.
While there is no rigid agenda, Consult Sessions are bound by a clear start and end time—typically held early in the morning (6:30–8:30 AM) on public holidays and select Sundays, with a few sessions rolling out on Sunday evenings (7:00–9:00 PM). These conversations flow naturally, focusing on mutual accountability, storytelling, and collective problem-solving. Many participants use the platform to recommit to their writing schedules, gain clarity on specific issues, or simply draw strength from knowing they are not alone. The unstructured yet intentional nature of these sessions makes them a powerful tool for building momentum and sustaining motivation.
Over time, Consult Sessions have explored a wide range of personal and practical concerns that may not always be addressed in formal research settings. Common areas of focus include:
– Adherence to institutional research guidelines
– Keeping self-motivation alive
– Ensuring a consistent writing pace
– Peer consultation and review
– Accountability partnerships
– Data analysis support
– Defense preparation
– Publishing strategies
These peer-led sessions have become a cornerstone of the VRF101 ecosystem, offering not just solutions but deep, human-centered encouragement that sustains researchers throughout their journey..