The University of Ghana Graduate School conducted a three-day workshop on Thesis Writing Boot Camp at the Graduate School Hall from 11th to 13th, 2025. The training attracted graduate finalist students from a variety of academic disciplines across the university. One of the most exciting memorial sessions was held on the closing day, Friday, June 2025, facilitated by a distinguished academic scholar and a leading African Marketing Pracademic.
The focus of his presentation was guiding doctoral students on life after the PhD. In his motivational presentation to graduate students, Professor Hinson mentioned key points that must be put into practice to manage life after a PhD. These included: Humility, daily progress, networking, connecting with God, building a personal brand, and guarding one’s health.
Whereas many areas were explored during the presentation, this article focuses exclusively on Professor Hinson’s insights on the need for graduate students to guard their health during and after attaining a PhD. It was emphasised that guarding health is a personal, deliberate choice that requires sacrifices and shifts in behaviour change. Using his personal experience, Professor Hinson noted how he has kept physically fit by using approaches such as physical exercises, watching what he eats, and when to eat. ‘Do not simply eat heavy foods more often at night because it’s not good for your health,’ Professor Hinson warned.
The Professor excited students with his narration of the long distances he covers, not only jogging but sometimes walking to keep fit. This has kept him in shape, young at an advanced age, and alert in mind, complemented by his constant smiles. He further advised graduate students to watch what they eat because this has a direct effect on their health. To illustrate this further, students were recommended to avoid drinking too much fruit cocktail juice since it contained high sugar levels that, in the long run, could affect one’s health. Lemon fruits were recommended to be good for health.
Students were encouraged to avoid eating too much food, but rather focus on foods rich in a balanced diet. Professor Hinson advised that the best way is to eat a heavy breakfast, moderate lunch, and take a light bite like coffee for dinner to keep the body healthy. He wondered about people who eat a heavy meal of foods like Banku, Kenke, or similar high-starch foods late at night on the eve of their bedtime, which could affect the digestive system. The professor ended this subtopic, encouraging students to avoid sitting for long periods but rather give breaks to keep their bodies fit. He graced participants with a closing prayer, emphasising putting God first in all their endeavours as a path to success.
Ahumuza John M Vianney, PhD Candidate, History Department, University of Ghana
