Most supervisors won't tell you what they're really like, but their students will spill the REAL tea. 
A chat & a coffee could save you from one of the worst decisions of your life - agreeing to do a PhD with someone who doesn't deserve your talent.
https://authenticallyaverage.com/2019/10/15/what-to-look-out-for-in-a-phd-advisor/ …
Some will nevertheless reveal what they know, if they're persuaded you'll maintain their confidences. Some will speak out of a sense of moral obligation. But most will preserve a tactful silence, or even dissemble. (Postdocs are only slightly more likely to speak the truth.)
-
-
I counsel extreme caution. Take rumors seriously. Take oblique hints seriously. Above all, don't imagine you'll be singularly adept at wrangling an adviser who might be trouble. That's way too risky! Remember: of all God's creatures, the grad student is the most vulnerable.
-
The prudent grad student (vastly) prefers an adviser who is clearly and reliably kind, generous, patient, and encouraging over an adviser who is a world-famous genius. It is almost impossible to exaggerate the nightmares that may result from apprenticeship to a ruthless monster.
- 1 more reply
New conversation -
Loading seems to be taking a while.
Twitter may be over capacity or experiencing a momentary hiccup. Try again or visit Twitter Status for more information.