Datasets:

---

ai2-adapt-dev

/

shp-formatted

like 0

Follow

AI2 Adapt Dev 52

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’ve never heard of this. We have plenty of undergrads who stay for grad. The much more common advice is not to do your postdoc at the same place as your PhD.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Emphasizing it really depends on the expertise. In my area of archaeology, there’s pretty much one person in the States who has published extensively. I got lucky to have met her in undergrad and continue working with her.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’ve never heard of this. We have plenty of undergrads who stay for grad. The much more common advice is not to do your postdoc at the same place as your PhD.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It really depends. There are tons of geniuses in many fields that did their PhDs in their alma maters. However, it's worth mentioning that most of these were in top tier schools, and mostly in the West", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’ve never heard of this. We have plenty of undergrads who stay for grad. The much more common advice is not to do your postdoc at the same place as your PhD.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is not a problem at all in my field, as having momentum and making continued progress matter most. Funding to do an RA (not TA) with proper levels of focus matters, too, and I'm presuming that is part of the offer; if not, though, consider selecting the option with funding. In any case, it is fairly common to stay for a PhD, especially if you are at a school with a strong program aligned with your interests. Do keep in touch with the \"another school\" for a paper or two, and consider that they might be a good target for postdoc opportunity later.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The far more influential career killer is that there are far less academic jobs than applicants by the time you will hypothetically finish your program (unless your plan is to go into private industry/corporate). Everything else will probably have a marginal influence on most people's career trajectories.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Emphasizing it really depends on the expertise. In my area of archaeology, there’s pretty much one person in the States who has published extensively. I got lucky to have met her in undergrad and continue working with her.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The far more influential career killer is that there are far less academic jobs than applicants by the time you will hypothetically finish your program (unless your plan is to go into private industry/corporate). Everything else will probably have a marginal influence on most people's career trajectories.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It really depends. There are tons of geniuses in many fields that did their PhDs in their alma maters. However, it's worth mentioning that most of these were in top tier schools, and mostly in the West", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The far more influential career killer is that there are far less academic jobs than applicants by the time you will hypothetically finish your program (unless your plan is to go into private industry/corporate). Everything else will probably have a marginal influence on most people's career trajectories.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it a career killer to attend the same school as undergrad for a PhD? I've been in my current physics research group at an R1 state school for a year. The problem we're working on is a long-term problem that I find inspiring and important. I've also received really strong mentorship here. I got into another school where they'd like me to work on the same problem, if I choose to go there. They said they'd like to collaborate even if I don't go there. I'm not married to the idea of an academic career, but I would consider it if I felt I was competitive. Logistically, staying at my current school would be easier, and I have momentum. Would staying at my current institution be a bad decision? Or is the important thing that I work with other groups of people and broaden my horizons?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is not a problem at all in my field, as having momentum and making continued progress matter most. Funding to do an RA (not TA) with proper levels of focus matters, too, and I'm presuming that is part of the offer; if not, though, consider selecting the option with funding. In any case, it is fairly common to stay for a PhD, especially if you are at a school with a strong program aligned with your interests. Do keep in touch with the \"another school\" for a paper or two, and consider that they might be a good target for postdoc opportunity later.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Over 100 pubs, a couple books, former tenured full prof. We had not gotten merit-based raises in 8 years, I was advising 3 PhD students with no course release, and was graduate director. Those that do, just keep getting asked to do more. I had gotten a decent (but not great) raise only by getting an outside offer. I love my new position in industry; irony is I still get to do research & teach.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Are you *enjoying* what you're doing *right now*? Once you find yourself just doing everything \"for the CV\" or \"for the interview\", stop. This is your life, and you have to live it on your own terms. There's so much more out there for you. Btw depending on your field you can still apply for faculty jobs when you're in industry, especially if you're in R&D areas, so you're not exactly \"giving up\". And if you can/want, reach out to some people who have interviewed you for more details. Everything is kind of a gamble since there's only one slot, but they may have specific advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Over 100 pubs, a couple books, former tenured full prof. We had not gotten merit-based raises in 8 years, I was advising 3 PhD students with no course release, and was graduate director. Those that do, just keep getting asked to do more. I had gotten a decent (but not great) raise only by getting an outside offer. I love my new position in industry; irony is I still get to do research & teach.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's an individual decision but after covid it's only going to get worse. Now is better than later. I'm fighting the same fight, and right there with you in terms of experience and pubs, I think it's bullshit and time to go on to greener pastures. Just gotta pull the plug at some point.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Over 100 pubs, a couple books, former tenured full prof. We had not gotten merit-based raises in 8 years, I was advising 3 PhD students with no course release, and was graduate director. Those that do, just keep getting asked to do more. I had gotten a decent (but not great) raise only by getting an outside offer. I love my new position in industry; irony is I still get to do research & teach.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Have you interviewed for any industry positions? Seems like that would help clarify your desires.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Over 100 pubs, a couple books, former tenured full prof. We had not gotten merit-based raises in 8 years, I was advising 3 PhD students with no course release, and was graduate director. Those that do, just keep getting asked to do more. I had gotten a decent (but not great) raise only by getting an outside offer. I love my new position in industry; irony is I still get to do research & teach.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Very clear that administration's vision was in a direction that was not going to be conducive to the department long-term. Spouse worked in the administration office and was brought on with X title, but generally expected to do lesser Y job, with little growth opportunity and a very toxic work environment. This was a 3rd toxic environment they'd had at the university in a small town, so we pulled the plug to go elsewhere. A consequence was me leaving academia. While I do miss teaching a bit, I don't regret the change. I miss out on the handful of motivated students, but I get to skip out on the much larger percent of students who don't give a damn and put in minimal effort but still want an \"A\" because otherwise they'll \"lose their assistanceship.\"", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Are you *enjoying* what you're doing *right now*? Once you find yourself just doing everything \"for the CV\" or \"for the interview\", stop. This is your life, and you have to live it on your own terms. There's so much more out there for you. Btw depending on your field you can still apply for faculty jobs when you're in industry, especially if you're in R&D areas, so you're not exactly \"giving up\". And if you can/want, reach out to some people who have interviewed you for more details. Everything is kind of a gamble since there's only one slot, but they may have specific advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's an individual decision but after covid it's only going to get worse. Now is better than later. I'm fighting the same fight, and right there with you in terms of experience and pubs, I think it's bullshit and time to go on to greener pastures. Just gotta pull the plug at some point.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Are you *enjoying* what you're doing *right now*? Once you find yourself just doing everything \"for the CV\" or \"for the interview\", stop. This is your life, and you have to live it on your own terms. There's so much more out there for you. Btw depending on your field you can still apply for faculty jobs when you're in industry, especially if you're in R&D areas, so you're not exactly \"giving up\". And if you can/want, reach out to some people who have interviewed you for more details. Everything is kind of a gamble since there's only one slot, but they may have specific advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Have you interviewed for any industry positions? Seems like that would help clarify your desires.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I haven't gotten out yet, but I am at the end of the my PhD and I am leaving. My PhD wasn't excellent, and I am aware that the odds are bad even for someone with a wonderful track record of publications. The uncertainty, temporary contracts, bad pay, the constant moving houses and countries... love for science is not enough to tip the balance towards staying in academia. Also, there is still science outside the university walls.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Was genuinely dreading starting work in the morning, lost all interest in the research, PI was a bully and a bad manager. Took a small pay cut to leave and now I wake up excited to go to work, I'm solving genuinely interesting problems, I'm managed well, given responsibility etc. Academia is a pretty horrible place in hindsight, I don't know why anyone does it", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I haven't gotten out yet, but I am at the end of the my PhD and I am leaving. My PhD wasn't excellent, and I am aware that the odds are bad even for someone with a wonderful track record of publications. The uncertainty, temporary contracts, bad pay, the constant moving houses and countries... love for science is not enough to tip the balance towards staying in academia. Also, there is still science outside the university walls.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I very much wanted in, but quit before I even defended and have no regrets. It all started with a concrete exit plan. Have you given much thought to what you would do instead? It's hard to make a decision to do something if you have no idea what you're deciding to do.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I haven't gotten out yet, but I am at the end of the my PhD and I am leaving. My PhD wasn't excellent, and I am aware that the odds are bad even for someone with a wonderful track record of publications. The uncertainty, temporary contracts, bad pay, the constant moving houses and countries... love for science is not enough to tip the balance towards staying in academia. Also, there is still science outside the university walls.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Very clear that administration's vision was in a direction that was not going to be conducive to the department long-term. Spouse worked in the administration office and was brought on with X title, but generally expected to do lesser Y job, with little growth opportunity and a very toxic work environment. This was a 3rd toxic environment they'd had at the university in a small town, so we pulled the plug to go elsewhere. A consequence was me leaving academia. While I do miss teaching a bit, I don't regret the change. I miss out on the handful of motivated students, but I get to skip out on the much larger percent of students who don't give a damn and put in minimal effort but still want an \"A\" because otherwise they'll \"lose their assistanceship.\"", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I haven't gotten out yet, but I am at the end of the my PhD and I am leaving. My PhD wasn't excellent, and I am aware that the odds are bad even for someone with a wonderful track record of publications. The uncertainty, temporary contracts, bad pay, the constant moving houses and countries... love for science is not enough to tip the balance towards staying in academia. Also, there is still science outside the university walls.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Whew— nowhere near that far into all of it (defended just before everything went to hell a year ago, graduated last May...) but already debating if I should try to do something else. I know I should give it more time, but seems to me you have given it enough time and tried to make it happen. I think the question about whether you're enjoying the work you're doing now, even if you're not getting the \"reward\" you feel you deserve, might be worth considering. I'm also wondering if you're surviving right now— like do you have a gig economy teaching job right now or...?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Was genuinely dreading starting work in the morning, lost all interest in the research, PI was a bully and a bad manager. Took a small pay cut to leave and now I wake up excited to go to work, I'm solving genuinely interesting problems, I'm managed well, given responsibility etc. Academia is a pretty horrible place in hindsight, I don't know why anyone does it", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Very clear that administration's vision was in a direction that was not going to be conducive to the department long-term. Spouse worked in the administration office and was brought on with X title, but generally expected to do lesser Y job, with little growth opportunity and a very toxic work environment. This was a 3rd toxic environment they'd had at the university in a small town, so we pulled the plug to go elsewhere. A consequence was me leaving academia. While I do miss teaching a bit, I don't regret the change. I miss out on the handful of motivated students, but I get to skip out on the much larger percent of students who don't give a damn and put in minimal effort but still want an \"A\" because otherwise they'll \"lose their assistanceship.\"", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Was genuinely dreading starting work in the morning, lost all interest in the research, PI was a bully and a bad manager. Took a small pay cut to leave and now I wake up excited to go to work, I'm solving genuinely interesting problems, I'm managed well, given responsibility etc. Academia is a pretty horrible place in hindsight, I don't know why anyone does it", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Whew— nowhere near that far into all of it (defended just before everything went to hell a year ago, graduated last May...) but already debating if I should try to do something else. I know I should give it more time, but seems to me you have given it enough time and tried to make it happen. I think the question about whether you're enjoying the work you're doing now, even if you're not getting the \"reward\" you feel you deserve, might be worth considering. I'm also wondering if you're surviving right now— like do you have a gig economy teaching job right now or...?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I very much wanted in, but quit before I even defended and have no regrets. It all started with a concrete exit plan. Have you given much thought to what you would do instead? It's hard to make a decision to do something if you have no idea what you're deciding to do.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Very clear that administration's vision was in a direction that was not going to be conducive to the department long-term. Spouse worked in the administration office and was brought on with X title, but generally expected to do lesser Y job, with little growth opportunity and a very toxic work environment. This was a 3rd toxic environment they'd had at the university in a small town, so we pulled the plug to go elsewhere. A consequence was me leaving academia. While I do miss teaching a bit, I don't regret the change. I miss out on the handful of motivated students, but I get to skip out on the much larger percent of students who don't give a damn and put in minimal effort but still want an \"A\" because otherwise they'll \"lose their assistanceship.\"", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I very much wanted in, but quit before I even defended and have no regrets. It all started with a concrete exit plan. Have you given much thought to what you would do instead? It's hard to make a decision to do something if you have no idea what you're deciding to do.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Whew— nowhere near that far into all of it (defended just before everything went to hell a year ago, graduated last May...) but already debating if I should try to do something else. I know I should give it more time, but seems to me you have given it enough time and tried to make it happen. I think the question about whether you're enjoying the work you're doing now, even if you're not getting the \"reward\" you feel you deserve, might be worth considering. I'm also wondering if you're surviving right now— like do you have a gig economy teaching job right now or...?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I don't know that there's ever a \"defining moment\", but the immense relief I felt when offered an industry position (I manage a core facility and one of our external customers approached me about it), was sort of a big flag to me that maybe I was barking up the wrong tree for a while now. I was very close to having a university offer, until COVID related budget concerns evaporated the position in April last year, but even there I was unsure as to me the \"fun\" of what I do was never in the \"grind out a bunch of grants\" part of the job, it was in the discovery, learning and teaching process, none of which necessarily go away in an industry gig. Unfortunately there's no sort of established 'transition period\" to go from academia to industry, each of us has to figure things out our own way, but I was lucky to sample a number of potential positions in a life sciences business organization's mentorship program, where a local PhD in industry helped introduce me to a number of people for informational interviews; so I might suggest at least making some time to explore what alternatives exist, and identifying what sorts of core competencies you may have, that could help to clarify where to go from here. Best of luck, there are a lot of great opportunities out there, and don't let the harshness of the academic job market impact your self-esteem, it's a bit of a rigged system / pyramid scheme, unfortunately.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Whew— nowhere near that far into all of it (defended just before everything went to hell a year ago, graduated last May...) but already debating if I should try to do something else. I know I should give it more time, but seems to me you have given it enough time and tried to make it happen. I think the question about whether you're enjoying the work you're doing now, even if you're not getting the \"reward\" you feel you deserve, might be worth considering. I'm also wondering if you're surviving right now— like do you have a gig economy teaching job right now or...?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "When I saw that people in my area (gravitational physics) with hundreds of citations and postdocs at elite universities couldn’t get a position and left, even though on paper this is a very hot area of research.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'd start reaching out to folks with your background in the industry you are considering. Try to get some informational interviews about their experiences. I also like to frame these decisions around 'things that invigorate me' and 'things that drain me'. Once you get a sense of things from your informational interviews you can start to figure out how the shift might impact you. I know a folks that were also able to get some consulting gigs, which let them try it out before committing to making the shift. Leaving academia was very bittersweet for me. I think my dream would be to be an academic the way it worked in the early 90s or something, but when I look at my field today, I'm glad to be working in industry and just keeping a toe or two in academia in various ways.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'd start reaching out to folks with your background in the industry you are considering. Try to get some informational interviews about their experiences. I also like to frame these decisions around 'things that invigorate me' and 'things that drain me'. Once you get a sense of things from your informational interviews you can start to figure out how the shift might impact you. I know a folks that were also able to get some consulting gigs, which let them try it out before committing to making the shift. Leaving academia was very bittersweet for me. I think my dream would be to be an academic the way it worked in the early 90s or something, but when I look at my field today, I'm glad to be working in industry and just keeping a toe or two in academia in various ways.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Whew— nowhere near that far into all of it (defended just before everything went to hell a year ago, graduated last May...) but already debating if I should try to do something else. I know I should give it more time, but seems to me you have given it enough time and tried to make it happen. I think the question about whether you're enjoying the work you're doing now, even if you're not getting the \"reward\" you feel you deserve, might be worth considering. I'm also wondering if you're surviving right now— like do you have a gig economy teaching job right now or...?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "When I saw that people in my area (gravitational physics) with hundreds of citations and postdocs at elite universities couldn’t get a position and left, even though on paper this is a very hot area of research.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Whew— nowhere near that far into all of it (defended just before everything went to hell a year ago, graduated last May...) but already debating if I should try to do something else. I know I should give it more time, but seems to me you have given it enough time and tried to make it happen. I think the question about whether you're enjoying the work you're doing now, even if you're not getting the \"reward\" you feel you deserve, might be worth considering. I'm also wondering if you're surviving right now— like do you have a gig economy teaching job right now or...?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "No one says that with a PhD your only option is academia :). A faculty position isn't always what it's cracked up to be. There is a lot of pressure and much of what you end up doing isn't actually what you love doing (lots of faculty committees, chairing dissertations, grunt work that junior faculty are often asked to shoulder, etc.). I did a couple of years in a faculty role but decided to leave when I had my first child, after seeing so many female colleagues try to be a mom and a full time faculty member- almost all of them felt like they couldn't be successful in either role and it took a heavy emotional toll on them. Even before I became a mom I was stressed out and unhappy, so I decided to take a step back from academia and have a better work/life balance. I've worked in a variety of other roles (medical education, senior project management, senior research scientist, etc.) and have been much happier. I've still been able to publish even in these other roles, which has been fun, and I've leveraged my teaching skills into leading workshops and doing corporate presentations. Honestly, leaving academia was the best decision for me, I don't regret it one bit.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Whew— nowhere near that far into all of it (defended just before everything went to hell a year ago, graduated last May...) but already debating if I should try to do something else. I know I should give it more time, but seems to me you have given it enough time and tried to make it happen. I think the question about whether you're enjoying the work you're doing now, even if you're not getting the \"reward\" you feel you deserve, might be worth considering. I'm also wondering if you're surviving right now— like do you have a gig economy teaching job right now or...?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "No one says that with a PhD your only option is academia :). A faculty position isn't always what it's cracked up to be. There is a lot of pressure and much of what you end up doing isn't actually what you love doing (lots of faculty committees, chairing dissertations, grunt work that junior faculty are often asked to shoulder, etc.). I did a couple of years in a faculty role but decided to leave when I had my first child, after seeing so many female colleagues try to be a mom and a full time faculty member- almost all of them felt like they couldn't be successful in either role and it took a heavy emotional toll on them. Even before I became a mom I was stressed out and unhappy, so I decided to take a step back from academia and have a better work/life balance. I've worked in a variety of other roles (medical education, senior project management, senior research scientist, etc.) and have been much happier. I've still been able to publish even in these other roles, which has been fun, and I've leveraged my teaching skills into leading workshops and doing corporate presentations. Honestly, leaving academia was the best decision for me, I don't regret it one bit.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "So I never ended up going into academia, I was planning on grad school since I’d just gotten published but I got an offer to do quant research at a hedge fund. I knew it was time as soon as they gave me a figure. I had student loans and was going to have to get surgery soon.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "No one says that with a PhD your only option is academia :). A faculty position isn't always what it's cracked up to be. There is a lot of pressure and much of what you end up doing isn't actually what you love doing (lots of faculty committees, chairing dissertations, grunt work that junior faculty are often asked to shoulder, etc.). I did a couple of years in a faculty role but decided to leave when I had my first child, after seeing so many female colleagues try to be a mom and a full time faculty member- almost all of them felt like they couldn't be successful in either role and it took a heavy emotional toll on them. Even before I became a mom I was stressed out and unhappy, so I decided to take a step back from academia and have a better work/life balance. I've worked in a variety of other roles (medical education, senior project management, senior research scientist, etc.) and have been much happier. I've still been able to publish even in these other roles, which has been fun, and I've leveraged my teaching skills into leading workshops and doing corporate presentations. Honestly, leaving academia was the best decision for me, I don't regret it one bit.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I had been considering it for a while, for the usual reasons (low pay, lack of prospects, poor management, lack of collaboration, etc). I applied to a few places. I had some bad interviews, but other better ones. Ended up taking an offer at a startup, and although it wasn't perfect, it was an improvement. This was a while ago, and every year that passes makes me more confident in my decision. I'd recommend you actually go and apply to industry jobs, and see how it feels, talking to interviewers, getting a feel for the company culture etc. Also it might take a couple practice interviews before you get good at it so be ready for that.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I didn't have a great publication list nor research experience out of grad school, so I decided to go for a postdoc position in a location whereI know is full of opportunities in the industry. The lab was unfortunately in super bad shape... It was a toxic environment that would definitely not lead me anywhere, but it provided me tons of time to apply and work as part-time interns. I'm sure academic isn't like this but I was pretty much done of it. So when I got an opportunity to apply for industry jobs I started right away. And don't feel discouraged. I applied for almost 300 jobs and didn't get a single phone interview in my first year. In my second year of trying, I got around 10 final rounds of interviews in the pandemic before I finally got two offers in the end. It's definitely painful, desperate, and any negative word you can think of, but you'll get there. Informational interviews are helpful. But please please please never say or even think someone's CV is worse than yours. That would just leave you in a position where you really need to think what happened on your other performances. Sometimes it's not really about how smart or how good you are, but how much I want to work with you as a teammate/colleague.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "When was/is it time to cash out? For those of you who left for the industry, how did you know it was time? I’ve been on the market for like 5 years now. A dozen journal articles (about half first/sole authored), 50 or so conference papers, and a few book chapters. I was an instructor for 3 years, so I’ve got a ton of teaching experience. I get a fair number of interviews. I used to get a fair number of visits. I’ve literally never gotten an offer. (I think I’m a decent enough person, but maybe I have horrific flaw nobody’s ever told me about.) This year was more of the same. 6 interviews, no visits, obviously no offers, and the candidates getting the jobs generally have much weaker CVs than mine. I just can’t keep doing this. It’s killing me. So for those of you who got out (assuming you wanted in in the first place), how did you know it was time to give up on this stuff?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I had been considering it for a while, for the usual reasons (low pay, lack of prospects, poor management, lack of collaboration, etc). I applied to a few places. I had some bad interviews, but other better ones. Ended up taking an offer at a startup, and although it wasn't perfect, it was an improvement. This was a while ago, and every year that passes makes me more confident in my decision. I'd recommend you actually go and apply to industry jobs, and see how it feels, talking to interviewers, getting a feel for the company culture etc. Also it might take a couple practice interviews before you get good at it so be ready for that.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Echoing everything said here. My first Skype interview was for a TT position at a dream school with a long prolific history in my field. Literal MacArthur Genius recipient among the faculty interviewing me. I fucking BOMBED. Rambling, incoherent, trying too hard, intimidated, etc. I wanted to cry the moment I ended the call because I knew I fucked up. AND it was my birthday. I’m serious. However, I’ve since had a few more Skype interviews and on campus interviews. In fact, the dream school invited me back two years later for an on campus interview for another TT position. I didn’t get it, but I was able to land a TT offer during that same cycle and I’m now an Assistant Prof at an R1. First, as others have said, congratulations on getting interviews. You’ve done, and are doing, something right. Second, everybody seems to go through this because we get very little training here. Virtual meetings are harder and will take some getting used to. They will get easier. Just keeping going — you will learn from this and get better. I would recommend that you try to anticipate what the search committee checklist includes. They need to know you’re sane and that you can express yourself clearly. They’re probably always going to ask about your research, what courses you would teach, how your teaching is inclusive, what projects or grants are upcoming, etc. They are just vetting you to see if you’re legit. And you are because you got the interview. Have canned (or semi-canned) responses with an eye toward what’s in it for them. For example, they usually ask about what courses you can teach and how you can incorporate undergrads into research because they are trying to increase course enrollment and majors. Greater enrollment and major numbers is financially (and otherwise) beneficial for them from a college and university perspective. They don’t actually personally care about your courses or research (some might)! Just remember that it’s really about THEM and what you bring to their department. That will take a little digging on your part to learn about their history, what they’ve done, and maybe what they’d like to do, sort of in a bigger picture departmental or college “mission” kind of way. That seems like a big task at face value but it’s really not. Did somebody just retire and they’re looking to fill that teaching void? Can they do that and also get a badass new faculty member? Bingo! Just try to find ways that you naturally check off as many boxes as possible. Anyway, I know this sucks and feels bad. Many of us have been there. But you can and will learn from this. It’s so awesome that you’re getting interviews. My mantra lately has been “just keep going.” Manuscript or grant proposal rejections, bad teaching days, etc. Tenacity seems to be a bigger predictor of success than entirely avoiding failure by giving up. I hope this helps somehow. Good luck! You got this 👍", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Reflect on the experience and use it to improve. I bombed my first TT interview - so I figured out what went wrong and how to make it better. There were some additional weird things that happened there that haven't happened since so I'm thankful for the experience even if it wasn't the best. I would probably think about it more if I ever ran into those people, but it's on the other side of the country and I haven't seen any of the names/faces again in my professional life thus far!", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a tenured faculty member. Been doing this a long time. I’m really good at my job. In the past three years, I’ve bombed two interviews that I was head hunted for. Whoops. Good candidates have bad days. Don’t let it get you down.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Congrats on lading an interview. I totally fucked my first interview. After that, each subsequent interview got easier and now I’m in a TT position. I check out The Professor Is In’s interview prep content if you haven’t. It was a huge help.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a tenured faculty member. Been doing this a long time. I’m really good at my job. In the past three years, I’ve bombed two interviews that I was head hunted for. Whoops. Good candidates have bad days. Don’t let it get you down.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I felt that way after my first TT interview. It was online and I had tech problems during my teaching demo and I felt like I asked the wrong questions at the end; the committee seemed annoyed with my questions. I didn’t get the job, but actually a year later they posted the same job and I thought it was probably a waste of time but I wrote a cover letter explaining my continued interest and how I had further strengthened my experience. The chair wrote and said they were happy to see my name again and invited me for another interview. Although in the meantime I had a couple other interviews and found a different school that was the perfect fit and I nailed that interview. So I was know everything worked out the right way.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a tenured faculty member. Been doing this a long time. I’m really good at my job. In the past three years, I’ve bombed two interviews that I was head hunted for. Whoops. Good candidates have bad days. Don’t let it get you down.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I also didn't do as well as I'd hoped on my first TT interview. I actually began getting a migraine with aura with about 4 hours (including my teaching demo) remaining. I did my best to power though, but I suspect I came across as impatient and perhaps a little drunk? My second and third interviews were better. My fourth interview likely the best. Take a bit of time to write down what you can remember about what they asked you, its all likely to come up again. You can practice answers versions of those questions for yourself, either in writing, or aloud to yourself/pet/partner/friend. I found that once I had confidence in what I saw saying I could think on my feet a bit better. I also spent sometime wearing my interview outfits around so I didn't feel totally non-myself while wearing them. I know that sounds odd. But, I think that made me feel more comfortable with the version of myself I needed to present, and it really helped with my confidence.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a tenured faculty member. Been doing this a long time. I’m really good at my job. In the past three years, I’ve bombed two interviews that I was head hunted for. Whoops. Good candidates have bad days. Don’t let it get you down.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Look up the tenure requirements so you can talk about them. Be able to lay out your research agenda in short sound bites- both what you are working on now and how that will build over the 1st six years. Also sound bites on teaching. Of course you’ll take on the huge intro classes, and this is how I plan to make them interesting. But I also see that no one is teaching such and such, and I would like to build a class or classes in that area. Students need to see how your subject area connects to the real world. Will you bring people in, include UGs in research, help them get internships... or whatever works best in your field. If you do a demo class, PRACTICE! Lastly, have the idea in your head that you are interviewing them. Make sure it’s a good fit for you.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a tenured faculty member. Been doing this a long time. I’m really good at my job. In the past three years, I’ve bombed two interviews that I was head hunted for. Whoops. Good candidates have bad days. Don’t let it get you down.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I've never been invited for a TT interview", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a tenured faculty member. Been doing this a long time. I’m really good at my job. In the past three years, I’ve bombed two interviews that I was head hunted for. Whoops. Good candidates have bad days. Don’t let it get you down.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Agree with others here. I said some stupid shit during my first TT interview.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I felt that way after my first TT interview. It was online and I had tech problems during my teaching demo and I felt like I asked the wrong questions at the end; the committee seemed annoyed with my questions. I didn’t get the job, but actually a year later they posted the same job and I thought it was probably a waste of time but I wrote a cover letter explaining my continued interest and how I had further strengthened my experience. The chair wrote and said they were happy to see my name again and invited me for another interview. Although in the meantime I had a couple other interviews and found a different school that was the perfect fit and I nailed that interview. So I was know everything worked out the right way.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Congrats on lading an interview. I totally fucked my first interview. After that, each subsequent interview got easier and now I’m in a TT position. I check out The Professor Is In’s interview prep content if you haven’t. It was a huge help.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I felt that way after my first TT interview. It was online and I had tech problems during my teaching demo and I felt like I asked the wrong questions at the end; the committee seemed annoyed with my questions. I didn’t get the job, but actually a year later they posted the same job and I thought it was probably a waste of time but I wrote a cover letter explaining my continued interest and how I had further strengthened my experience. The chair wrote and said they were happy to see my name again and invited me for another interview. Although in the meantime I had a couple other interviews and found a different school that was the perfect fit and I nailed that interview. So I was know everything worked out the right way.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I also didn't do as well as I'd hoped on my first TT interview. I actually began getting a migraine with aura with about 4 hours (including my teaching demo) remaining. I did my best to power though, but I suspect I came across as impatient and perhaps a little drunk? My second and third interviews were better. My fourth interview likely the best. Take a bit of time to write down what you can remember about what they asked you, its all likely to come up again. You can practice answers versions of those questions for yourself, either in writing, or aloud to yourself/pet/partner/friend. I found that once I had confidence in what I saw saying I could think on my feet a bit better. I also spent sometime wearing my interview outfits around so I didn't feel totally non-myself while wearing them. I know that sounds odd. But, I think that made me feel more comfortable with the version of myself I needed to present, and it really helped with my confidence.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I felt that way after my first TT interview. It was online and I had tech problems during my teaching demo and I felt like I asked the wrong questions at the end; the committee seemed annoyed with my questions. I didn’t get the job, but actually a year later they posted the same job and I thought it was probably a waste of time but I wrote a cover letter explaining my continued interest and how I had further strengthened my experience. The chair wrote and said they were happy to see my name again and invited me for another interview. Although in the meantime I had a couple other interviews and found a different school that was the perfect fit and I nailed that interview. So I was know everything worked out the right way.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Look up the tenure requirements so you can talk about them. Be able to lay out your research agenda in short sound bites- both what you are working on now and how that will build over the 1st six years. Also sound bites on teaching. Of course you’ll take on the huge intro classes, and this is how I plan to make them interesting. But I also see that no one is teaching such and such, and I would like to build a class or classes in that area. Students need to see how your subject area connects to the real world. Will you bring people in, include UGs in research, help them get internships... or whatever works best in your field. If you do a demo class, PRACTICE! Lastly, have the idea in your head that you are interviewing them. Make sure it’s a good fit for you.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I felt that way after my first TT interview. It was online and I had tech problems during my teaching demo and I felt like I asked the wrong questions at the end; the committee seemed annoyed with my questions. I didn’t get the job, but actually a year later they posted the same job and I thought it was probably a waste of time but I wrote a cover letter explaining my continued interest and how I had further strengthened my experience. The chair wrote and said they were happy to see my name again and invited me for another interview. Although in the meantime I had a couple other interviews and found a different school that was the perfect fit and I nailed that interview. So I was know everything worked out the right way.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I've never been invited for a TT interview", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I felt that way after my first TT interview. It was online and I had tech problems during my teaching demo and I felt like I asked the wrong questions at the end; the committee seemed annoyed with my questions. I didn’t get the job, but actually a year later they posted the same job and I thought it was probably a waste of time but I wrote a cover letter explaining my continued interest and how I had further strengthened my experience. The chair wrote and said they were happy to see my name again and invited me for another interview. Although in the meantime I had a couple other interviews and found a different school that was the perfect fit and I nailed that interview. So I was know everything worked out the right way.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Agree with others here. I said some stupid shit during my first TT interview.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I also didn't do as well as I'd hoped on my first TT interview. I actually began getting a migraine with aura with about 4 hours (including my teaching demo) remaining. I did my best to power though, but I suspect I came across as impatient and perhaps a little drunk? My second and third interviews were better. My fourth interview likely the best. Take a bit of time to write down what you can remember about what they asked you, its all likely to come up again. You can practice answers versions of those questions for yourself, either in writing, or aloud to yourself/pet/partner/friend. I found that once I had confidence in what I saw saying I could think on my feet a bit better. I also spent sometime wearing my interview outfits around so I didn't feel totally non-myself while wearing them. I know that sounds odd. But, I think that made me feel more comfortable with the version of myself I needed to present, and it really helped with my confidence.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I've never been invited for a TT interview", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Look up the tenure requirements so you can talk about them. Be able to lay out your research agenda in short sound bites- both what you are working on now and how that will build over the 1st six years. Also sound bites on teaching. Of course you’ll take on the huge intro classes, and this is how I plan to make them interesting. But I also see that no one is teaching such and such, and I would like to build a class or classes in that area. Students need to see how your subject area connects to the real world. Will you bring people in, include UGs in research, help them get internships... or whatever works best in your field. If you do a demo class, PRACTICE! Lastly, have the idea in your head that you are interviewing them. Make sure it’s a good fit for you.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I've never been invited for a TT interview", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Before your 2nd interview, find people to practice with. Answer questions, give the job talk, the chalk talk - whatever your format is. Maybe even look at this sub, or at r/Professors :) Ask for volunteers who would donate some time to listen to your story, and provide some advice. General advice is, just that, too general. Like, I don't even quite know your field, for example, and it may matter; as well as the type of institutions you are applying for.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Totally bombed my first TT job interview; advice from those who’ve been there? I didn’t expect to get this interview and it was super last minute. Usually I interview pretty well but it was like the link between my brain and mouth was severed, and also all my neurotransmitters were replaced with molasses. Any tips for moving on? I do have another interview in a couple weeks and I’m feeling a lot more prepared for that one at least...", "role": "user" }, { "content": "That’s tough and I appreciate the special feeling of misery when it seems like your actions were to blame’; my first interview for grad school went like what you described. Assume it happened for a reason. For instance even though I wasn’t offered the position in grad school where I bombed the interview, it was in a snowy small town I would have HATED to live in. Somehow, that must have come through in my interviewing even if unconsciously. But only now with time and better self-perspective can I see that clearly. On the flip side, I thought I rocked my first TT interview and they still went with someone else so your performance is only ever only part of the equation. Same advice applies. Assume it happened for a reason. In my case not getting that job was the incentive I needed to find the current new job I have at a prestigious institution in a cool city more aligned with my lifestyle priorities but it never would have happen if the first place had accepted me. It stings now but use this as information and keep at it when you are ready. Good things are coming your way, that I am absolutely sure of.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Deans, department chairs, and others who have dealt with grievances against faculty: what is the most ridiculous complaint someone has made against a professor in your department? What did you think silently to yourself and how did you actually respond? In asking this, I don't mean to disparage legitimate complaints about biased, abusive, harassment-prone, absent, incompetent, or otherwise unprofessional faculty. But I know a lot of academics have stories about a student with a completely ludicrous complaint or a time when something entirely innocuous got escalated to a higher administrative level. I'm thinking of emails to the department head or Dean that say things like: \"I didn't turn anything in all semester for no apparent reason and my professor won't accept an entire semester's worth of late work on the last week of the term!\" or \"My professor said the word 'shit' in class once and I think she should be fired!\" or \"My son's professor said he won't tell me my son's grade on the final exam because of some stupid privacy law!\" or \"My colleague insists on playing music while working in their office!! How can I get anything done with Britney Spears blaring in my ears all day?? I hate them and want them banned from the building!! Btw I am too shy to ask them to turn it down or use headphones, so they may have no idea this is even an issue\" or \"I AM INVESTIGATING THE THEFT OF A PEN FROM THE COPY MACHINE ROOM -- PLZ BAN GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM USING THE COPIER UNTIL THE CULPRIT IS APPREHENDED!\" So, what are your stories? How did you actually handle the situation? What did you really think/how do you *wish* you could have responded?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm a chair...once had a pair of parents send a letter directly to the college president accusing one of my colleagues of \"not inspiring\" their son. Who was flunking out because he rarely went to class and didn't turn in much of the work the entire semester. But of course the president's office sent it to me for a response-- because they were donors. The letter was two pages of single-spaced text but it simply boiled down to \"you should fire this professor because our son told us he wasn't inspiring enough.\" We passed it around the department and framed a copy for the faculty member in person. I replied with a short note that basically said \"Please talk to your son about the choices he is making in life.\"", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Deans, department chairs, and others who have dealt with grievances against faculty: what is the most ridiculous complaint someone has made against a professor in your department? What did you think silently to yourself and how did you actually respond? In asking this, I don't mean to disparage legitimate complaints about biased, abusive, harassment-prone, absent, incompetent, or otherwise unprofessional faculty. But I know a lot of academics have stories about a student with a completely ludicrous complaint or a time when something entirely innocuous got escalated to a higher administrative level. I'm thinking of emails to the department head or Dean that say things like: \"I didn't turn anything in all semester for no apparent reason and my professor won't accept an entire semester's worth of late work on the last week of the term!\" or \"My professor said the word 'shit' in class once and I think she should be fired!\" or \"My son's professor said he won't tell me my son's grade on the final exam because of some stupid privacy law!\" or \"My colleague insists on playing music while working in their office!! How can I get anything done with Britney Spears blaring in my ears all day?? I hate them and want them banned from the building!! Btw I am too shy to ask them to turn it down or use headphones, so they may have no idea this is even an issue\" or \"I AM INVESTIGATING THE THEFT OF A PEN FROM THE COPY MACHINE ROOM -- PLZ BAN GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM USING THE COPIER UNTIL THE CULPRIT IS APPREHENDED!\" So, what are your stories? How did you actually handle the situation? What did you really think/how do you *wish* you could have responded?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "One memorable complainant both accused the professor of prejudice and opined that said professor should go back to where they came from. The professor's offense? Daring to assign a workload approaching the federal credit hour guidelines.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Deans, department chairs, and others who have dealt with grievances against faculty: what is the most ridiculous complaint someone has made against a professor in your department? What did you think silently to yourself and how did you actually respond? In asking this, I don't mean to disparage legitimate complaints about biased, abusive, harassment-prone, absent, incompetent, or otherwise unprofessional faculty. But I know a lot of academics have stories about a student with a completely ludicrous complaint or a time when something entirely innocuous got escalated to a higher administrative level. I'm thinking of emails to the department head or Dean that say things like: \"I didn't turn anything in all semester for no apparent reason and my professor won't accept an entire semester's worth of late work on the last week of the term!\" or \"My professor said the word 'shit' in class once and I think she should be fired!\" or \"My son's professor said he won't tell me my son's grade on the final exam because of some stupid privacy law!\" or \"My colleague insists on playing music while working in their office!! How can I get anything done with Britney Spears blaring in my ears all day?? I hate them and want them banned from the building!! Btw I am too shy to ask them to turn it down or use headphones, so they may have no idea this is even an issue\" or \"I AM INVESTIGATING THE THEFT OF A PEN FROM THE COPY MACHINE ROOM -- PLZ BAN GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM USING THE COPIER UNTIL THE CULPRIT IS APPREHENDED!\" So, what are your stories? How did you actually handle the situation? What did you really think/how do you *wish* you could have responded?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Had someone say they deserved a refund for 3 years of a bachelor's education because they found Jesus and he revealed them in a dream that evolution and the rest of her college education was a faithless lie. There was a lot of extra details about the dream and messages... But that's the gist.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Deans, department chairs, and others who have dealt with grievances against faculty: what is the most ridiculous complaint someone has made against a professor in your department? What did you think silently to yourself and how did you actually respond? In asking this, I don't mean to disparage legitimate complaints about biased, abusive, harassment-prone, absent, incompetent, or otherwise unprofessional faculty. But I know a lot of academics have stories about a student with a completely ludicrous complaint or a time when something entirely innocuous got escalated to a higher administrative level. I'm thinking of emails to the department head or Dean that say things like: \"I didn't turn anything in all semester for no apparent reason and my professor won't accept an entire semester's worth of late work on the last week of the term!\" or \"My professor said the word 'shit' in class once and I think she should be fired!\" or \"My son's professor said he won't tell me my son's grade on the final exam because of some stupid privacy law!\" or \"My colleague insists on playing music while working in their office!! How can I get anything done with Britney Spears blaring in my ears all day?? I hate them and want them banned from the building!! Btw I am too shy to ask them to turn it down or use headphones, so they may have no idea this is even an issue\" or \"I AM INVESTIGATING THE THEFT OF A PEN FROM THE COPY MACHINE ROOM -- PLZ BAN GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM USING THE COPIER UNTIL THE CULPRIT IS APPREHENDED!\" So, what are your stories? How did you actually handle the situation? What did you really think/how do you *wish* you could have responded?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I teach in South Korea. So this story is all too real but never thought it would happen to me. I got an urgent email from my department head explaining that a mother went up to the president’s office on the main campus and threatened to sue the school if I don’t pass her son who is a senior and must graduate! (I should mention here that in South Korea 2nd semester senior have a lot of leniency for grades if they have a full time job. Long story short - this helps the university with getting in new freshman and looks real good for points with the Ministry of Education.) Of course, I immediately contacted my department chair and scheduled a meeting. I brought all the student’s information, notes, grades from the current semester and last fall semester (when he failed miserably). At the meeting, I explained I have a detailed, signed and dated contract with this student because he has a full time job and it is backed by the government and university. But he still must take the midterm, final exam and complete any and all homework assigned. He is excused from class attendance only. We both have original signed and dated copies. When my department chair read the contract, she just paused. She asked me- so what is the problem? I said, well he has never turned in any homework and he never showed up or contacted me about the midterm. So currently, he is failing. I sent him an email to the registered email in the system explaining this and have no idea how or why his mom knows. She called the president’s office and it was clarified that the mom didn’t show up, it was a phone call. Nobody was able to get ahold of the student. Just the mom. So they assumed I must be doing something wrong..... Come to find out not only did the student fail my class last fall but also winter term too. I taught the fall term and my colleague the winter term. I called my colleague and he said that the student never showed up to any class or exam, never replied or contacted him, so he failed him flat out. So my department head then tried to contact the student with no success. After another 20 more minutes the student finally called back. He said he wanted to fail and already talked to his boss about taking the class again. He has no idea why his mom called. He never told his parents and didn’t want to embarrass himself again. He also was too embarrassed to contact me. Come to find out, the email provided for the student is accessible to the mom. So when she read my email explaining he was failing, she freaked out! Assumed her kid could not possibly fail a class 3 times in a row! Of course the mom never even talked to her son. In her mind - It is his third time taking this class and its obvious the school and professors are against the son and don’t want him to graduate! So after all that, it was just a misunderstanding.... Seriously! I was so pissed. I drove all the way back to campus for this. Sigh.....", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Deans, department chairs, and others who have dealt with grievances against faculty: what is the most ridiculous complaint someone has made against a professor in your department? What did you think silently to yourself and how did you actually respond? In asking this, I don't mean to disparage legitimate complaints about biased, abusive, harassment-prone, absent, incompetent, or otherwise unprofessional faculty. But I know a lot of academics have stories about a student with a completely ludicrous complaint or a time when something entirely innocuous got escalated to a higher administrative level. I'm thinking of emails to the department head or Dean that say things like: \"I didn't turn anything in all semester for no apparent reason and my professor won't accept an entire semester's worth of late work on the last week of the term!\" or \"My professor said the word 'shit' in class once and I think she should be fired!\" or \"My son's professor said he won't tell me my son's grade on the final exam because of some stupid privacy law!\" or \"My colleague insists on playing music while working in their office!! How can I get anything done with Britney Spears blaring in my ears all day?? I hate them and want them banned from the building!! Btw I am too shy to ask them to turn it down or use headphones, so they may have no idea this is even an issue\" or \"I AM INVESTIGATING THE THEFT OF A PEN FROM THE COPY MACHINE ROOM -- PLZ BAN GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM USING THE COPIER UNTIL THE CULPRIT IS APPREHENDED!\" So, what are your stories? How did you actually handle the situation? What did you really think/how do you *wish* you could have responded?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I was a student at the time, but I once had to stick up for a faculty member because the wildlife BIOLOGY professor at a state school dared to say the word \"vagina\" in class while discussing different radio transmitter types for tracking wildlife. The transmitter type we were discussing was a \"vaginal-implant transmitter\" used for located deer fawns after being birthed. I'm not really sure what other word he could have used, and the diversity of transmitters and wildlife tracking devices are many, so he was just trying to expose us to as many as possible. A student complained to the dean so the professor had to go have a brief sit-down and discuss the situation and the absurdity of it all.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Deans, department chairs, and others who have dealt with grievances against faculty: what is the most ridiculous complaint someone has made against a professor in your department? What did you think silently to yourself and how did you actually respond? In asking this, I don't mean to disparage legitimate complaints about biased, abusive, harassment-prone, absent, incompetent, or otherwise unprofessional faculty. But I know a lot of academics have stories about a student with a completely ludicrous complaint or a time when something entirely innocuous got escalated to a higher administrative level. I'm thinking of emails to the department head or Dean that say things like: \"I didn't turn anything in all semester for no apparent reason and my professor won't accept an entire semester's worth of late work on the last week of the term!\" or \"My professor said the word 'shit' in class once and I think she should be fired!\" or \"My son's professor said he won't tell me my son's grade on the final exam because of some stupid privacy law!\" or \"My colleague insists on playing music while working in their office!! How can I get anything done with Britney Spears blaring in my ears all day?? I hate them and want them banned from the building!! Btw I am too shy to ask them to turn it down or use headphones, so they may have no idea this is even an issue\" or \"I AM INVESTIGATING THE THEFT OF A PEN FROM THE COPY MACHINE ROOM -- PLZ BAN GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM USING THE COPIER UNTIL THE CULPRIT IS APPREHENDED!\" So, what are your stories? How did you actually handle the situation? What did you really think/how do you *wish* you could have responded?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Leaving aside those genuinely affected by mental illness, the following comes to mind. As per the example in OP, a student last year decided to submit all his assessment months after it was due, having ignored the previous emails from course coordinator. She rejected it, telling student he would fail. Student emails program director with some story (doesn’t copy course coordinator), who then contacts course coordinator. He finds out full story, so says, sorry you’ll fail. Then student emails teaching dean (me) for our faculty, forwarding (half) an email chain from course coordinator claiming she failed to respond to his emails. Student claims didn’t know when assignments due, he’s part time, it’s not fair etc. I email other staff, find out truth. Student fails. None of this is an official appeal as student presumably knows there are no grounds. Student is now repeating course. The first assignment due date was three weeks ago. Course coordinator emails student asking whether they’re planning to submit, and copies both program director and me in. Student emails back saying he wasn’t sure how to submit assignment, as though this is the first time he’s ever been asked to do it, instead of being a final year student. Apparently he’s still too special to have to follow the same rules as everyone else, or bother to ask if he genuinely doesn’t know.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Deans, department chairs, and others who have dealt with grievances against faculty: what is the most ridiculous complaint someone has made against a professor in your department? What did you think silently to yourself and how did you actually respond? In asking this, I don't mean to disparage legitimate complaints about biased, abusive, harassment-prone, absent, incompetent, or otherwise unprofessional faculty. But I know a lot of academics have stories about a student with a completely ludicrous complaint or a time when something entirely innocuous got escalated to a higher administrative level. I'm thinking of emails to the department head or Dean that say things like: \"I didn't turn anything in all semester for no apparent reason and my professor won't accept an entire semester's worth of late work on the last week of the term!\" or \"My professor said the word 'shit' in class once and I think she should be fired!\" or \"My son's professor said he won't tell me my son's grade on the final exam because of some stupid privacy law!\" or \"My colleague insists on playing music while working in their office!! How can I get anything done with Britney Spears blaring in my ears all day?? I hate them and want them banned from the building!! Btw I am too shy to ask them to turn it down or use headphones, so they may have no idea this is even an issue\" or \"I AM INVESTIGATING THE THEFT OF A PEN FROM THE COPY MACHINE ROOM -- PLZ BAN GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM USING THE COPIER UNTIL THE CULPRIT IS APPREHENDED!\" So, what are your stories? How did you actually handle the situation? What did you really think/how do you *wish* you could have responded?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’ve gotten students complaining that a male professor was going to a conference with several female students and “something could happen!” All of the students attending were over 21 and no one was using university funds for the travel. I said, “I hope they all have a good time!”", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Deans, department chairs, and others who have dealt with grievances against faculty: what is the most ridiculous complaint someone has made against a professor in your department? What did you think silently to yourself and how did you actually respond? In asking this, I don't mean to disparage legitimate complaints about biased, abusive, harassment-prone, absent, incompetent, or otherwise unprofessional faculty. But I know a lot of academics have stories about a student with a completely ludicrous complaint or a time when something entirely innocuous got escalated to a higher administrative level. I'm thinking of emails to the department head or Dean that say things like: \"I didn't turn anything in all semester for no apparent reason and my professor won't accept an entire semester's worth of late work on the last week of the term!\" or \"My professor said the word 'shit' in class once and I think she should be fired!\" or \"My son's professor said he won't tell me my son's grade on the final exam because of some stupid privacy law!\" or \"My colleague insists on playing music while working in their office!! How can I get anything done with Britney Spears blaring in my ears all day?? I hate them and want them banned from the building!! Btw I am too shy to ask them to turn it down or use headphones, so they may have no idea this is even an issue\" or \"I AM INVESTIGATING THE THEFT OF A PEN FROM THE COPY MACHINE ROOM -- PLZ BAN GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM USING THE COPIER UNTIL THE CULPRIT IS APPREHENDED!\" So, what are your stories? How did you actually handle the situation? What did you really think/how do you *wish* you could have responded?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Leaving aside those genuinely affected by mental illness, the following comes to mind. As per the example in OP, a student last year decided to submit all his assessment months after it was due, having ignored the previous emails from course coordinator. She rejected it, telling student he would fail. Student emails program director with some story (doesn’t copy course coordinator), who then contacts course coordinator. He finds out full story, so says, sorry you’ll fail. Then student emails teaching dean (me) for our faculty, forwarding (half) an email chain from course coordinator claiming she failed to respond to his emails. Student claims didn’t know when assignments due, he’s part time, it’s not fair etc. I email other staff, find out truth. Student fails. None of this is an official appeal as student presumably knows there are no grounds. Student is now repeating course. The first assignment due date was three weeks ago. Course coordinator emails student asking whether they’re planning to submit, and copies both program director and me in. Student emails back saying he wasn’t sure how to submit assignment, as though this is the first time he’s ever been asked to do it, instead of being a final year student. Apparently he’s still too special to have to follow the same rules as everyone else, or bother to ask if he genuinely doesn’t know.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Boring Article Topics: Liven it up with a Pun", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Seems like something I should have a strong opinion on but I don't.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Is it possible to have a title of an academic article *without* a colon?: A question for the community", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Seems like something I should have a strong opinion on but I don't.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I love colons. Just so long as you don't reach Victorian level title length, e.g.: *\"The Travels Of Hildebrand Bowman, Esquire, Into Carnovirria, Taupiniera, Olfactaria, And Audinante, In New-Zealand; And In The Powerful Kingdom Of Luxo-Voluptot. Written By Himself; Who Went On Shore In The Adventure’s Large Cutter; And Escaped Being Cut Off, And Devoured, With The Rest Of The Boat’s Crew, By Happening To Be A-Shooting In The Woods; Where He Was Afterwards, Unfortunately Left Behind By The Adventure.\"* https://the-toast.net/2014/08/06/100-actual-titles-real-eighteenth-century-novels/", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Seems like something I should have a strong opinion on but I don't.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I love colons. Just so long as you don't reach Victorian level title length, e.g.: *\"The Travels Of Hildebrand Bowman, Esquire, Into Carnovirria, Taupiniera, Olfactaria, And Audinante, In New-Zealand; And In The Powerful Kingdom Of Luxo-Voluptot. Written By Himself; Who Went On Shore In The Adventure’s Large Cutter; And Escaped Being Cut Off, And Devoured, With The Rest Of The Boat’s Crew, By Happening To Be A-Shooting In The Woods; Where He Was Afterwards, Unfortunately Left Behind By The Adventure.\"* https://the-toast.net/2014/08/06/100-actual-titles-real-eighteenth-century-novels/", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Reviews, commentaries, etc, I love them and use them regularly. Original data papers, absolutely not, the title of the paper should be a very short summary of the main finding.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I love colons. Just so long as you don't reach Victorian level title length, e.g.: *\"The Travels Of Hildebrand Bowman, Esquire, Into Carnovirria, Taupiniera, Olfactaria, And Audinante, In New-Zealand; And In The Powerful Kingdom Of Luxo-Voluptot. Written By Himself; Who Went On Shore In The Adventure’s Large Cutter; And Escaped Being Cut Off, And Devoured, With The Rest Of The Boat’s Crew, By Happening To Be A-Shooting In The Woods; Where He Was Afterwards, Unfortunately Left Behind By The Adventure.\"* https://the-toast.net/2014/08/06/100-actual-titles-real-eighteenth-century-novels/", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's an overused trope, but there's a reason why it's a popular trope.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I love colons. Just so long as you don't reach Victorian level title length, e.g.: *\"The Travels Of Hildebrand Bowman, Esquire, Into Carnovirria, Taupiniera, Olfactaria, And Audinante, In New-Zealand; And In The Powerful Kingdom Of Luxo-Voluptot. Written By Himself; Who Went On Shore In The Adventure’s Large Cutter; And Escaped Being Cut Off, And Devoured, With The Rest Of The Boat’s Crew, By Happening To Be A-Shooting In The Woods; Where He Was Afterwards, Unfortunately Left Behind By The Adventure.\"* https://the-toast.net/2014/08/06/100-actual-titles-real-eighteenth-century-novels/", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Next year these are all going to be vision puns :2020", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "How the fuck else am I supposed to have a pun at the beginning of every title?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's an overused trope, but there's a reason why it's a popular trope.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "How the fuck else am I supposed to have a pun at the beginning of every title?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm Not Sure How I Feel: Making the Tough Decision About Colons", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "How the fuck else am I supposed to have a pun at the beginning of every title?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Next year these are all going to be vision puns :2020", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I love this comment thread. Academics can crack jokes too!", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Hard **no**. If you can't write a simple title that's concise, effective, and to the point *without* a colon, then you need to spend some time learning how to write better titles.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm fine with it. What I'm not fine with: Conference talks with exclamation points in the titles.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "They're fine if you hide an insult in an acronym.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "They're fine if you hide an insult in an acronym.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Hard **no**. If you can't write a simple title that's concise, effective, and to the point *without* a colon, then you need to spend some time learning how to write better titles.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm fine with it. What I'm not fine with: Conference talks with exclamation points in the titles.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Colons in article titles: Yes or no? It seems that people have strong opinions about this. Please share yours.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Hard **no**. If you can't write a simple title that's concise, effective, and to the point *without* a colon, then you need to spend some time learning how to write better titles.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "> Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? No idea, you tell us. Your priorities are yours. I did my PhD in my 20's and the university paid me to travel and present shit to large audiences of experts - to me that's adventurous enough.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You're asking us about your priorities. They're your priorities. Do the one you feel is the bigger priority. You can get a PhD a few years later. You can also travel a few years later. There's nothing special about your early 20s that means \"it's better to travel now than any other time.\" And taking a break won't lock you out of PhD programs; plenty of people in my PhD program were in their 30s.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "> Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? No idea, you tell us. Your priorities are yours. I did my PhD in my 20's and the university paid me to travel and present shit to large audiences of experts - to me that's adventurous enough.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you feel like doing a PhD is a \"sacrifice,\" you shouldn't get one.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "> Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? No idea, you tell us. Your priorities are yours. I did my PhD in my 20's and the university paid me to travel and present shit to large audiences of experts - to me that's adventurous enough.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "In Europe you have to have a Master's degree to apply to PhDs, so I assume you are American? I mean you can still travel in your 30s", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "> Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? No idea, you tell us. Your priorities are yours. I did my PhD in my 20's and the university paid me to travel and present shit to large audiences of experts - to me that's adventurous enough.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "As somebody who’s getting their bachelor’s degree at the age of 29 (will be finished by 30), I’d say go for it if you truly believe that the pursuit, unto itself, aligns with your long-term interests overall. I, by all objective measures, lived it up in my early twenties with nothing more than a CS certification as a means to independently support myself financially but now that I’m older and have gotten much of that out of my system, I can’t help but wish I had taken the time to wholly dedicate myself to the academic ventures which I, admittedly, knew that I’d eventually get to. Get it out of the way now so as to legitimately enjoy yourself when not only your ideals are more significantly developed, but also your comprehension of “need” and all the potential ramifications therein. EDIT: syntax", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "> Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? No idea, you tell us. Your priorities are yours. I did my PhD in my 20's and the university paid me to travel and present shit to large audiences of experts - to me that's adventurous enough.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A phd is an adventure", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You're asking us about your priorities. They're your priorities. Do the one you feel is the bigger priority. You can get a PhD a few years later. You can also travel a few years later. There's nothing special about your early 20s that means \"it's better to travel now than any other time.\" And taking a break won't lock you out of PhD programs; plenty of people in my PhD program were in their 30s.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you feel like doing a PhD is a \"sacrifice,\" you shouldn't get one.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You're asking us about your priorities. They're your priorities. Do the one you feel is the bigger priority. You can get a PhD a few years later. You can also travel a few years later. There's nothing special about your early 20s that means \"it's better to travel now than any other time.\" And taking a break won't lock you out of PhD programs; plenty of people in my PhD program were in their 30s.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "In Europe you have to have a Master's degree to apply to PhDs, so I assume you are American? I mean you can still travel in your 30s", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You're asking us about your priorities. They're your priorities. Do the one you feel is the bigger priority. You can get a PhD a few years later. You can also travel a few years later. There's nothing special about your early 20s that means \"it's better to travel now than any other time.\" And taking a break won't lock you out of PhD programs; plenty of people in my PhD program were in their 30s.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A phd is an adventure", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you feel like doing a PhD is a \"sacrifice,\" you shouldn't get one.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "In Europe you have to have a Master's degree to apply to PhDs, so I assume you are American? I mean you can still travel in your 30s", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you feel like doing a PhD is a \"sacrifice,\" you shouldn't get one.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A phd is an adventure", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a STEM masters degree student (30 F) in the process of applying to PhD programs. I’m definitely a non-traditional student, as I went back to get a second bachelors degree as a career changer in my mid-20s. I always tell folks to do what makes sense for *their specific goals*. If you just want a job in the arena of STEM in industry research but not necessarily as a project manager/lead/PI, a thesis masters is just fine for you. Everyone doesn’t have to be the head of the table and there’s nothing wrong with that. You can even become a community college lecturer or an adjunct at a 4 yr university with an MS degree (non-tenured track) as well. Now if you want to be the opinion that people consider or the project lead, you absolutely need a PhD (regardless of what some misinformed Reddit world ppl say, a PhD in industry has a ton of benefits and goes far). Of course, to be a tenured professor you also need a PhD. The key here is to figure out your goals and whether the sacrifice is worth it to you. (Everything has its pros and cons) I had time off and worked in the real world in between degrees to do this, and I actually think being a little older makes grad school much easier for you. You tend to be a better student and as long as you figured things out before grad school, are more focused overall.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "As somebody who’s getting their bachelor’s degree at the age of 29 (will be finished by 30), I’d say go for it if you truly believe that the pursuit, unto itself, aligns with your long-term interests overall. I, by all objective measures, lived it up in my early twenties with nothing more than a CS certification as a means to independently support myself financially but now that I’m older and have gotten much of that out of my system, I can’t help but wish I had taken the time to wholly dedicate myself to the academic ventures which I, admittedly, knew that I’d eventually get to. Get it out of the way now so as to legitimately enjoy yourself when not only your ideals are more significantly developed, but also your comprehension of “need” and all the potential ramifications therein. EDIT: syntax", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a STEM masters degree student (30 F) in the process of applying to PhD programs. I’m definitely a non-traditional student, as I went back to get a second bachelors degree as a career changer in my mid-20s. I always tell folks to do what makes sense for *their specific goals*. If you just want a job in the arena of STEM in industry research but not necessarily as a project manager/lead/PI, a thesis masters is just fine for you. Everyone doesn’t have to be the head of the table and there’s nothing wrong with that. You can even become a community college lecturer or an adjunct at a 4 yr university with an MS degree (non-tenured track) as well. Now if you want to be the opinion that people consider or the project lead, you absolutely need a PhD (regardless of what some misinformed Reddit world ppl say, a PhD in industry has a ton of benefits and goes far). Of course, to be a tenured professor you also need a PhD. The key here is to figure out your goals and whether the sacrifice is worth it to you. (Everything has its pros and cons) I had time off and worked in the real world in between degrees to do this, and I actually think being a little older makes grad school much easier for you. You tend to be a better student and as long as you figured things out before grad school, are more focused overall.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A phd is an adventure", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I’m a STEM masters degree student (30 F) in the process of applying to PhD programs. I’m definitely a non-traditional student, as I went back to get a second bachelors degree as a career changer in my mid-20s. I always tell folks to do what makes sense for *their specific goals*. If you just want a job in the arena of STEM in industry research but not necessarily as a project manager/lead/PI, a thesis masters is just fine for you. Everyone doesn’t have to be the head of the table and there’s nothing wrong with that. You can even become a community college lecturer or an adjunct at a 4 yr university with an MS degree (non-tenured track) as well. Now if you want to be the opinion that people consider or the project lead, you absolutely need a PhD (regardless of what some misinformed Reddit world ppl say, a PhD in industry has a ton of benefits and goes far). Of course, to be a tenured professor you also need a PhD. The key here is to figure out your goals and whether the sacrifice is worth it to you. (Everything has its pros and cons) I had time off and worked in the real world in between degrees to do this, and I actually think being a little older makes grad school much easier for you. You tend to be a better student and as long as you figured things out before grad school, are more focused overall.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A PhD should be done only if you have absolute clarity on what you want to do. If you have that then no it's not a sacrifice. If you don't, then get a Master's, work for some time and then re-evaluate. The experience will only aid your admission potential.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is hugely contingent on the job you want afterwards. My experience in biotech has been that masters degrees are just regarded as years of experience (i.e. someone who worked for 2 years and someone new after finishing a masters would get the same pay/position), and there’s a “PhD ceiling” where you need the degree to become a supervisor/manager and above. Obviously, not 100% across the board. But close to it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "As somebody who’s getting their bachelor’s degree at the age of 29 (will be finished by 30), I’d say go for it if you truly believe that the pursuit, unto itself, aligns with your long-term interests overall. I, by all objective measures, lived it up in my early twenties with nothing more than a CS certification as a means to independently support myself financially but now that I’m older and have gotten much of that out of my system, I can’t help but wish I had taken the time to wholly dedicate myself to the academic ventures which I, admittedly, knew that I’d eventually get to. Get it out of the way now so as to legitimately enjoy yourself when not only your ideals are more significantly developed, but also your comprehension of “need” and all the potential ramifications therein. EDIT: syntax", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is hugely contingent on the job you want afterwards. My experience in biotech has been that masters degrees are just regarded as years of experience (i.e. someone who worked for 2 years and someone new after finishing a masters would get the same pay/position), and there’s a “PhD ceiling” where you need the degree to become a supervisor/manager and above. Obviously, not 100% across the board. But close to it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A phd is an adventure", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is hugely contingent on the job you want afterwards. My experience in biotech has been that masters degrees are just regarded as years of experience (i.e. someone who worked for 2 years and someone new after finishing a masters would get the same pay/position), and there’s a “PhD ceiling” where you need the degree to become a supervisor/manager and above. Obviously, not 100% across the board. But close to it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A PhD should be done only if you have absolute clarity on what you want to do. If you have that then no it's not a sacrifice. If you don't, then get a Master's, work for some time and then re-evaluate. The experience will only aid your admission potential.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is hugely contingent on the job you want afterwards. My experience in biotech has been that masters degrees are just regarded as years of experience (i.e. someone who worked for 2 years and someone new after finishing a masters would get the same pay/position), and there’s a “PhD ceiling” where you need the degree to become a supervisor/manager and above. Obviously, not 100% across the board. But close to it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Only you can answer this question. Which will you regret more? Not travelling or not getting a PhD? Only you can answer that. Not that its a binary. I've travelled more I my 30s than I did in my 20s because I have more money. I could have gotten my PhD in my 30s instead of my 20s.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is hugely contingent on the job you want afterwards. My experience in biotech has been that masters degrees are just regarded as years of experience (i.e. someone who worked for 2 years and someone new after finishing a masters would get the same pay/position), and there’s a “PhD ceiling” where you need the degree to become a supervisor/manager and above. Obviously, not 100% across the board. But close to it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My partner is getting a PhD and they are always traveling", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is hugely contingent on the job you want afterwards. My experience in biotech has been that masters degrees are just regarded as years of experience (i.e. someone who worked for 2 years and someone new after finishing a masters would get the same pay/position), and there’s a “PhD ceiling” where you need the degree to become a supervisor/manager and above. Obviously, not 100% across the board. But close to it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Do a PhD in Europe", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "As somebody who’s getting their bachelor’s degree at the age of 29 (will be finished by 30), I’d say go for it if you truly believe that the pursuit, unto itself, aligns with your long-term interests overall. I, by all objective measures, lived it up in my early twenties with nothing more than a CS certification as a means to independently support myself financially but now that I’m older and have gotten much of that out of my system, I can’t help but wish I had taken the time to wholly dedicate myself to the academic ventures which I, admittedly, knew that I’d eventually get to. Get it out of the way now so as to legitimately enjoy yourself when not only your ideals are more significantly developed, but also your comprehension of “need” and all the potential ramifications therein. EDIT: syntax", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "As somebody who’s getting their bachelor’s degree at the age of 29 (will be finished by 30), I’d say go for it if you truly believe that the pursuit, unto itself, aligns with your long-term interests overall. I, by all objective measures, lived it up in my early twenties with nothing more than a CS certification as a means to independently support myself financially but now that I’m older and have gotten much of that out of my system, I can’t help but wish I had taken the time to wholly dedicate myself to the academic ventures which I, admittedly, knew that I’d eventually get to. Get it out of the way now so as to legitimately enjoy yourself when not only your ideals are more significantly developed, but also your comprehension of “need” and all the potential ramifications therein. EDIT: syntax", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A phd is an adventure", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My wife took a year off between undergrad and grad school and backpacked around Europe for nine months. She got her PhD by the time she was 27. Travelling and schooling in the same decade aren’t mutually exclusive things.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you REALLY want a PhD, I’d say early 20s is easier than late 20s or early 30s especially if you want to start a family. If you are in the US, biomed PhD takes 4-5 years and the stipend is not enough to support a family (unless your partner has a job with a decent salary).", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "That's cute that you think you'll only have to give up your early 20s on the PhD path. I'm in my early to mid 30s and I just now landed my first faculty position.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A phd is an adventure", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A PhD should be done only if you have absolute clarity on what you want to do. If you have that then no it's not a sacrifice. If you don't, then get a Master's, work for some time and then re-evaluate. The experience will only aid your admission potential.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Is one option to have a gap year? So get a PhD program sorted for a year later and then have a whole year to earn money and fit in loads of travel and fun? I completely agree that travelling early is better than travelling late, youth hostels are awesome when you are young and not so much when you are older.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You should only do a PhD if you are ready and it’s really what you want to do. The grad programs will still be there if you wait a few years.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Only you can answer this question. Which will you regret more? Not travelling or not getting a PhD? Only you can answer that. Not that its a binary. I've travelled more I my 30s than I did in my 20s because I have more money. I could have gotten my PhD in my 30s instead of my 20s.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Your 20s are the time to pursue education and figure out how you are going to make the world a better place. A personal philosophy of going on vacation is a very odd way of describing something. IMO, you will regret not getting the phd while you are young..", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My partner is getting a PhD and they are always traveling", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm curious why you think anyone here can answer your question, when you've already admitted that your reticence is built on your own personal idea of what your 20's should encompass. We can't tell you if you will regret it, because we're not you.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Do a PhD in Europe", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Awww I just think it’s so cute that 20 somethings think “having fun” stops the second they turn 30. Having kids is what stops the fun! At any age. Not in a bad way, but you just can’t be selfish anymore and they cost a ton of money. (It’s obviously worth it.) I’m now 42, my kids are growing up, I’ll graduate with my MA and celebrate 20 years in the workforce next year. I am super excited for my 40s and 50s and maybe even 60s and 70s, who knows. I have MONEY (as opposed to in my 20s) (not that much money lol, but “hotel instead of hostel” money at least). My husband and I are looking forward to more freedom! I am fit and healthy. I’ll probably sign up for marathons all over the world. I plan on using my MA for something cool, write a book or land a new job or both. Why would life be boring now? Just because I’m in my 40s? Statistically I’ve got half my life left! What you are doing now, is what you don’t need to spend time on later, that’s the simple math of it. Life can still be fun further down the line. Although a bit less partying and sleeping around if you settle down with a family, of course. Also. If you do a PhD now, it will be less stressful than if you save kids plus PhD plus buying a home until your 30s, just saying. Look after your health and save some money wisely so you increase the chances of enjoying life when you get older too, is my advice.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I have a personal philosophy to do bad ass shit bro", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My wife took a year off between undergrad and grad school and backpacked around Europe for nine months. She got her PhD by the time she was 27. Travelling and schooling in the same decade aren’t mutually exclusive things.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A phd is an adventure", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My wife took a year off between undergrad and grad school and backpacked around Europe for nine months. She got her PhD by the time she was 27. Travelling and schooling in the same decade aren’t mutually exclusive things.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "A PhD should be done only if you have absolute clarity on what you want to do. If you have that then no it's not a sacrifice. If you don't, then get a Master's, work for some time and then re-evaluate. The experience will only aid your admission potential.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My wife took a year off between undergrad and grad school and backpacked around Europe for nine months. She got her PhD by the time she was 27. Travelling and schooling in the same decade aren’t mutually exclusive things.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Is one option to have a gap year? So get a PhD program sorted for a year later and then have a whole year to earn money and fit in loads of travel and fun? I completely agree that travelling early is better than travelling late, youth hostels are awesome when you are young and not so much when you are older.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My wife took a year off between undergrad and grad school and backpacked around Europe for nine months. She got her PhD by the time she was 27. Travelling and schooling in the same decade aren’t mutually exclusive things.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You should only do a PhD if you are ready and it’s really what you want to do. The grad programs will still be there if you wait a few years.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My wife took a year off between undergrad and grad school and backpacked around Europe for nine months. She got her PhD by the time she was 27. Travelling and schooling in the same decade aren’t mutually exclusive things.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Only you can answer this question. Which will you regret more? Not travelling or not getting a PhD? Only you can answer that. Not that its a binary. I've travelled more I my 30s than I did in my 20s because I have more money. I could have gotten my PhD in my 30s instead of my 20s.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My wife took a year off between undergrad and grad school and backpacked around Europe for nine months. She got her PhD by the time she was 27. Travelling and schooling in the same decade aren’t mutually exclusive things.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it worth sacrificing your early 20s for a PhD when you can get a Masters? I’m currently 21 (22 early next year) and a Biomed graduate, further planning to continue my studies so I can spend more time researching prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. So I was considering between taking a PhD or masters; while I would have more creative freedom regarding my research with a PhD, its a long commitment, around 3-4 years, so I’ll have spent nearly all of my early 20s in school without the typical vacations that someone taking a masters would get. Now that wouldn’t be a huge problem since this is something I really enjoy, except that I have a personal philosophy that my early 20s are supposed to be for doing as many adventurous things (e.g. travelling) as I can, so I won’t come to regret not doing those things sooner by the time I have greater responsibilities like a full time job and a family. Now I don’t plan on getting into academia, but I do want to get into an R&D role in industry, where PhD holders are highly sought after, although masters holders are also considered. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Your 20s are the time to pursue education and figure out how you are going to make the world a better place. A personal philosophy of going on vacation is a very odd way of describing something. IMO, you will regret not getting the phd while you are young..", "role": "assistant" } ]