Yesterday I passed my thesis defence at the University of Helsinki. As part of the proceedings, I had to present a lectio praecursoria. This was a 20 minute presentation about my dissertation, titled ‘The “Queens of the Arabs” During the Neo-Assyrian Period’ (and is available to download).
The opponent was Professor Lorenzo Verderame, and after my presentation he gave a glowing statement about my research. Then was a really nice discussion about the process behind my decisions, as well as some interesting suggestions for future research.
After this discussion Professor Verderame recommended that my dissertation be accepted by the Faculty. In the Finnish system, this is when I passed the oral examination.
I’m very proud of myself, and I’m proud of the work I produced. But I’m blown away by the support I’ve had here in Helsinki, and the support of my family.
Here’s to the start of an equally successful career!
Ellie Bennett 