“I was taught fairly early on that I should not pay for a Ph.D., but should be getting paid (a Master’s either but it can be harder to get funded for that); that is how I have been able to justify the opportunity costs. In other words, when I think about how much time it takes to grow in a career, get a certain salary, management position, etc. along any career path I have found it to be no different then the time I’m taking in school to professionalize for free- along with the stipend Penn gives. On top of that, I’m passionate about what I’m doing. The Ph.D. is simply the credentials I need to teach or become an administrator on a college level and that is my ultimate goal. I truly believe no one should do this if it only sounds good. That’s my personal feeling- I’m sure there are others.

As far as how I eat lol, as I mentioned the expectation is that you will be fully funded (tuition, healthcare, and stipend) in a Ph.D. program. Normally you’re expected to be a TA. So no, I don’t have to work for extra income although doing tutoring on he side or even teaching could be a good way to gain extra money. I briefly worked at a non-profit this past year although I realized it did not work with the expectations in a Ph.D. That’s just a brief answer I hope that helps some. I’ll think more about this question and do a video.”

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Leah Barlow
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