Earning a professional degree has always been a dream of mine, fueled by my deep interest in forensic and clinical psychology. But my reasons for choosing to pursue a PhD are somewhat unorthodox.
Why I Chose the PhD Path
When I started my PhD, I wasn’t driven by an academic calling or a passion for tenure-track positions. I pursued it for a much simpler reason: I wanted to earn a doctorate, to add those three letters – “PhD” – to my name. For me, the PhD was less about a career in academia and more about fulfilling a personal goal, a marker of accomplishment that I had long aspired to meet. Well, that, and I couldn’t see myself not being a student just yet. While the PhD traditionally emphasizes research over applied practice, I recognized it as an opportunity to expand my expertise and grow as a professional. It allowed me to remain in the academic environment I loved while opening new doors in psychology.
This might sound unconventional in a world where PhDs are often seen as a labour of love for those with academic ambitions. But my journey was about taking the opportunity in front of me and turning it into something meaningful. Over time, I’ve found value not just in the degree itself but in the lessons, skills, and unexpected opportunities that came along the way.
Finding My Place in Academia
Being a PhD student without the “academic dream” can feel a little like swimming upstream. In lectures, my peers often discussed their aspirations to publish groundbreaking research, present at prestigious conferences around the world, and secure tenure-track positions after graduating. Meanwhile, my focus remained on completing the program requirements and earning the degree itself.
This disconnect often made me question whether my motivations were valid or if I truly “belonged” in the program. The pressure to conform to the academic mold often felt overwhelming, amplifying my self-doubt. Yet, over time, I began to embrace my unique path, recognizing that my professional goals and passions in forensic and clinical psychology were no less worthy than the pursuit of tenure. The PhD became not just a stepping stone but a way to chart a course that was entirely my own.
In fact, I pursued the degree with the same rigor as if I had been chasing an academic career. Since beginning my PhD program, I’ve taught lectures at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, authored multiple publications, presented at numerous conferences, and even won the Best Data Blitz Student Presentation Award at the 2023 American Psychology-Law Society Annual Conference in Philadelphia.
These achievements are milestones I take pride in. To me, they represent lessons learned along the way and opportunities to build skills that will serve me in any future I choose. I continue to embrace these opportunities not because they are required, but because they are valuable experiences that enrich my professional journey.
What has made this path especially meaningful is the level of respect I have for my supervisor. His unparalleled motivation and dedication to his work have set a standard that inspires me daily. Watching his drive and commitment to both research and mentorship has motivated me to put my best foot forward, regardless of where my PhD ultimately leads.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
While my reasons for pursuing a PhD might have been unconventional, the experience has been anything but a waste. The process has taught me resilience, critical thinking, and how to manage large, complex projects. It’s also given me a deeper understanding of my field, even if my ultimate goals don’t include publishing papers or attending conferences as a professor.
I’ve realized that there’s no “right” reason to pursue a PhD. Some people are here for the love of research, others for the career opportunities a doctorate provides. My story falls into the latter category, and that’s okay.
Advice for Non-Traditional PhD Students
If you’re considering a PhD and your motivation doesn’t fit the traditional mold, here’s my advice:
- Define Your Own Success: You don’t have to aspire to an academic career to make your PhD worthwhile. Focus on what matters to you, whether it’s gaining expertise, earning the title, or opening up new professional opportunities.
- Stay True to Your Goals: It’s easy to get caught up in the culture of academia, but remember why you started this journey. Don’t feel pressured to conform to someone else’s vision of success, and be upfront about what success looks like for you.
- Leverage the Skills You Gain: A PhD equips you with transferable skills, from critical thinking to project management. Use these to your advantage, no matter what field you enter after graduation.
Conclusions
I may not have started my PhD journey with the traditional academic dream, but the value of this experience has far exceeded my initial expectations. It hasn’t been about chasing tenure or becoming a career academic – it’s been about pushing myself to take on challenges, seize opportunities, and grow in ways I never imagined. Every paper published, every lecture taught, and every conference presented has been a step toward not just earning a degree but also building a foundation of skills and knowledge that will stay with me long after I leave the program.
Sometimes, being tangled up in degrees isn’t about the destination – it’s about proving to yourself that you’re capable of navigating the journey, no matter where it leads. For me, this journey has been a reminder that success doesn’t have to look the same for everyone; it’s what you make of it that truly matters.