Should you do a PhD?

Should you do a PhD?

Thinking about doing a PhD but not sure if it’s the right step for you?

This video breaks down some of the things you need to consider before making that big decision.

I’ll dive into the motivations that drive people to pursue a PhD and why it’s crucial to know yours - whether it’s a passion for research or outside pressure to achieve that “Dr.” title.

I’ll also look at the realities of time commitment. A PhD is a multi-year journey that can stretch anywhere from three to seven years. Are you ready to balance that with your other life commitments, and more importantly, do you have the energy and mental bandwidth to keep going?

Finances play a big role too - whether you’re considering scholarships, stipends, or funding it yourself. I’ll talk about why it’s essential to get your financial ducks in a row before you start.

And then there’s the job market. Does having a PhD actually boost your career prospects in your field? Or could those years be better spent climbing the career ladder or building your own venture?

Lastly, mental health and wellbeing. Let’s be honest - the PhD path can be tough. From imposter syndrome to isolation, it’s vital to know how to safeguard your mental health and find your support network.

Whether you’re weighing up starting now or waiting for the “perfect” time, this video gives you the insights and questions to help guide your decision. Watch, reflect, and join the conversation in the comments - I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!

Chapters
0:00 – 2:53 The PhD decision
2:54 – 4:36 Motivation to do a PhD
4:37 – 6:17 The time commitment of a PhD
6:18 – 6:58 Your questions and knowledge about PhD life
6:59 – 7:58 PhD finances and money problems
7:59 – 9:11 The job market for people with a PhD
9:12 – 11:27 Impact of a PhD on your mental health and wellbeing

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[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! ❤

[thumbstan]

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.

[JeffP]

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.

[Penina-yf]

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