Single, Working Parent? How to Decide if a PhD is Right for You
As a single, working parent, the thought of pursuing a PhD can be daunting.
Shout out to my amazing therapist who has helped me come to the realization that I have a tendency to set high goals for myself and strive to achieve them – even at the expense of my own well-being.
In this case, weighing the pros and cons of a PhD is a way for me to evaluate whether this decision aligns with my goals and priorities, and whether it is a good fit for my current lifestyle and responsibilities as a single, working parent of 4.
It is also a way for me to balance my desire for achievement with my need for self-care and fulfillment.
That said, on one hand, a doctoral degree can open up new opportunities and potential benefits, from increased earning potential to the satisfaction of achieving a prestigious academic accomplishment.
On the other hand, the process of applying and completing a PhD can be time-consuming, stressful, and overwhelming, especially for someone juggling the demands of parenting and work.
So how do you decide if pursuing a PhD is the right choice for you?
Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- A PhD can increase your earning potential and open up new career opportunities. A doctoral degree can make you more competitive in the job market and give you access to higher-paying positions and roles that require advanced education and expertise.
- Pursuing a PhD can be intellectually stimulating and challenging. You'll have the opportunity to dive deep into a subject you're passionate about and contribute to the field with your research and findings.
- A doctoral degree can be a source of personal satisfaction and accomplishment. Completing a PhD is a significant achievement that can boost your confidence and sense of self-worth.
- Pursuing a PhD can provide networking opportunities and connections. You'll have the chance to meet and collaborate with other researchers and professionals in your field, which can lead to new opportunities and support.
Cons:
- The process of applying and completing a PhD can be time-consuming and stressful. It can take several years to complete a doctoral degree, and the application process itself can be lengthy and competitive. You'll need to balance the demands of your PhD program with your other responsibilities, which can be challenging.
- Pursuing a PhD can be expensive. Doctoral programs can be costly, and you may need to take out loans or find other sources of funding to cover your tuition and expenses.
- Completing a PhD can be emotionally and physically demanding. The process can be intense and demanding, and you may need to make sacrifices and face challenges along the way. It's important to consider your own health and well-being before committing to a doctoral program.
- A PhD may not guarantee a job or a specific career path. Even with a doctoral degree, you may face competition and uncertainty in the job market, and you may need to be flexible and adaptable to find the right fit for your skills and interests.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue a PhD is a personal one, and it depends on your individual goals, priorities, and circumstances. If you’re considering a doctoral degree, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision that’s right for you and your family.
Some questions you can ask yourself as you weigh the pros and cons of pursuing a PhD include:
- What are my motivations for wanting a doctoral degree? Are they based on personal interests and passions, or are they driven by external factors like career advancement or financial gain?
- Can I afford the time, effort, and cost of pursuing a PhD? Do I have the support and resources I need to balance my PhD program with my other responsibilities?
- Am I emotionally and physically prepared to undertake the challenges and demands of a doctoral degree? Do I have a support network and resources to help me cope with the stress and demands of a PhD program?
- What are my goals and expectations for my PhD program? Do I have a clear plan and vision for what I want to achieve and how I want to use my doctoral degree?
Finally, remember that pursuing a PhD is a big commitment, and it’s not for everyone.
In my case, my chosen research field is a passion of mine, so I can’t imagine not taking this route, regardless of being a single, working parent. In spite of how long it may take, it seems worth it to me.
But if you’re passionate about your chosen field, and committed to making the sacrifices and taking on the challenges, a doctoral degree can be a valuable and rewarding investment in your future.
