Student Parents: Mixing Graduate School With Raising a Family
A reader emailed me to ask what my thoughts were on studying for a Ph.D. while raising a small child, so I thought I would make mention of it in my blog for any others with similar concerns and anyone interested in a career in biotechnology who has considered the reasons to do a PhD, and are wondering whether to pursue one while in the process of raising a family.
I have no kids and was not married while studying, so I can't say first hand what it is like, but I am a strong advocate for following your dreams and I have known many woman who got PhDs, either full time or part time, with 1-2 children of various ages at home. It is certainly possible. To help you make that decision, I have made a list of things to consider before making the decision to go back to, or continue, graduate school.
My personal opinion is that, however you decide to do it, even if it takes you a little longer than your peers to complete the degree, enhancing your education is never a bad thing so go for it!
Comments
As a young parent and a PhD student in the sciences, a can give first-hand accounts of life as a student/parent. It’s not an impossible task for males or females by any means. I’ve started a blog to facilitate discussion on this topic, and I welcome anyone interested in learning more from my experiences or those wanting to share theirs.