ABSTRACT
Between the ages of sixty-four and seventy-one, I undertook my doctoral studies at the University of the West of England in Bristol, where I was closely affiliated with the Centre for Psycho-social Studies (now called the Psycho-social Research Theme group of the University of the West of England). Although I was already an experienced organisational consultant and a published writer, I had to start from scratch in the student role and learn to do research. I naturally sought out the support of various others, with whom I have openly shared my work and my ongoing journey. These others include a German supervisor, my husband (a colleague), various organisational development colleagues who functioned as my process consultants, and a fellow UWE doctoral student. Other sources of support were provided by the university: my two supervisors (one of whom was my Director of Studies), the role analysis group that met during the bi-annual seminars, and my doctoral colleagues. I also add my reflexive journal to this list, as it was my ongoing thinking companion.
