Should you do a PhD?

[@AJvsgradschool]

I’m a first year, first semester Social Work PhD student. I’m also a first generation college student. I’m starting to document this on my YT channel. I find the challenges in this video are very realistic. This is the most challenging academic time of my life. There’s a lot of social rules in academia and dynamics to learn, in addition to everything else being thrown at you. Also, having unstructured time can be tough to navigate if you’re not used to it. However, if you’re out there considering this life and doing the hard work, I want to gently remind you that you can do hard things. Good luck in your discernment, all! ❤

[@DegreeDoctor]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience and these thoughtful words! I completely agree - navigating academia, especially in the early stages, can be overwhelming with all the unspoken rules and expectations. It’s great that you’re documenting your journey on your KZbin channel, as it will surely be a valuable resource and source of inspiration for others, especially first-generation college students who might feel isolated or unsure of what to expect. Here is a link to your channel for anyone reading this to go check it out: www.youtube.com/@AJvsgradschool Your reminder that "you can do hard things" is so powerful and important. Wishing you the best of luck in your first year and beyond-keep pushing forward, and know that your resilience will pay off. And thank you for adding such an encouraging voice to this community! 🌟

[@thumbstan3758]

Final year Psychology MSc student writing my dissertation and really loving it. Have always carried this amazing raw energy that inspires me to be curious and explore the mind and the universe and their relationship, so a PhD was always something I wanted to do since I was younger. This is my main motivation for doing a PhD now. As I am working on my dissertation it feels so wholly natural. It wasn't always like this though - there were some mixed motivations involved of wanting to impress others or get the title or present something unique to the world so people would acknowledge me.. but these have dropped off (which is so refreshing). The main reason for me not to do a PhD is the idea of stress from long hours (i like sleeping lol) and also that I kinda want to start living and earning money and having a family etc.

[@DegreeDoctor]

Thanks so much for sharing this! It sounds like you’ve found a deep, genuine passion for research, which is such a strong foundation for a PhD. That transition from external motivations to an inner curiosity and love for the work itself is really powerful- it's amazing that you’ve come to this place where it feels so natural! I completely understand the hesitation around work-life balance and the long hours. It’s definitely possible to set boundaries and maintain a healthy balance during a PhD, though it does take some planning and self-discipline. And yes, the financial side of things can be a big consideration, especially with life goals like family and stability on the horizon. Trust your gut, and keep weighing up what feels right for you long-term. Whatever path you choose, it sounds like you’re already on an incredible journey of exploration and growth! 😊

[@thumbstan3758]

@@DegreeDoctor Thanks a lot, i find your advice and videos really helpful. I value when people communicate complex information in a way that is easily palatable, and you do that! I will indeed follow my heart and see where I end up.

[@JeffP702]

First year PhD student. I think making sure you align getting a PhD and the specific research not just around “passion”, but “purpose”, is key. That intentionality can help you on tough days. I’m doing my PhD later in life so am balancing a demanding corporate HR career. I find my extra gear in the evening’s after work to study and write because my research is my purpose not just a passion.

[@DegreeDoctor]

Thank you for sharing this insight! Aligning your PhD with a sense of purpose rather than just passion is such a powerful approach, especially on those tougher days. Purpose can give you that extra fuel when motivation feels low, and it sounds like it’s exactly what’s helping you balance such a demanding schedule. The fact that you’re juggling a corporate HR career while doing a PhD is truly inspiring, and your dedication shows just how strong your commitment to your research is. Wishing you all the best as you continue this journey-your intentionality will no doubt carry you through!

[@RicRaftis]

You asked about things that were not in line with my expectations. 1. My supervisors does not keep my photo on their desk. 2. They do not share the same level of passion for my research as I do.

[@DegreeDoctor]

Haha, this made me laugh! It's so true that no one else quite matches the level of passion we bring to our own research. And yes, it's a shame supervisors don’t keep our photos on their desks as daily motivation! Thanks for sharing this-sometimes a little humour is exactly what’s needed on the PhD journey! 😄

[@TheTruthDetector]

I wonder about having co-supervisors. What are your experiences?

[@DegreeDoctor]

I’ve personally found multiple supervisors to be beneficial. You get a balance of perspectives and skill sets, which can really strengthen your research and provide broader support. That said, it’s not always seamless-different supervisors might have conflicting views or priorities, and managing communication between them can sometimes be a bit of a juggling act. But overall, if they’re on the same page about the big picture, it can be a great way to get a well-rounded mentoring experience.

[@TheTruthDetector]

@@DegreeDoctor thanks. That sounds reasonable.

[@Penina-y6f]

Omg, the imposter syndrome is a real thing! Just emerging from that now 🥹

[@DegreeDoctor]

It sure is, right?! It never really goes away, but we certainly get better at dealing with it.