How do I know if I am ready for a Ph.D.?
For competitive people who strive for the highest standards, studies can become a type of addiction. And, after completing college and a master's degree, the next logical step is a doctorate, but before making this decision, it's critical to consider: is this the right step for me?
To accomplish this, we invite you to consider the following points and respond to the following question:
How do I know if I am prepared to dedicate the next few years to doctoral studies?
● Make a list of how you see yourself in the next 3, 5, and 10 years.
● Write your personal and professional goals there.
Take your time. And make this list as detailed as possible. Including places you would like to visit, positions you want to occupy professionally, and family plans.
Why is it important to consider the future when making this decision and determining whether you are prepared for a doctorate?
Because it is a life-changing decision. Total immersion is required for quality time to undergo doctoral research. Then, for about five years, your aspirations in other areas of your life will be subject to the development of your studies.
If, while conducting the analysis, the balance suggests that you:
- Want to develop a research topic to demonstrate a theory
- Are passionate about research and spending hours studying
- Want to develop your professional career in academia or with analytical profile roles that require research
- Are not intimidated by the prospect of spending the next 5 years of your life developing this topic that you are passionate about
- Are excited to reach the highest level of your professional studies
- Are motivated to be a part of the change in the world, looking for solutions to current problems and contributing through your research work
- Understand your priorities and your professional career at this moment is at the top of these, understanding the sacrifice in the other areas of your life.
The decision is already made; the next step is to begin looking for universities that will allow you to fully develop your abilities and vocation. Examine the offers and keep in mind that, in today's world, online options have numerous advantages, including:
● Greater academic offer
● More flexible schedules that adapt to your life
● More competitive prices
Here are some interesting statistics about doctoral students:
● The average time to obtain a Ph.D. in 7.7 years
● 15% of students graduate before 6 years of study
● The average age at which the degree is obtained is 34.5 years
