PhD Pause and Play: Navigating Life, Stopping, and Restarting the Academic Journey with Adam Baldry, MA

Happy Doc Student Podcast

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On this show I chat with Adam Baldy. Adam holds an MA in East Asian Studies and is a PhD student at the University of Arizona. As a Senior IT Systems Analyst at Pima Community College, he blends his in-person and online teaching experience with ed tech management.

Highlights

· Starting a doctoral program is a big decision (perhaps the biggest decision you will ever make). If at any time you feel pressured to start a program, question the motives of that organization.

· Do your research! Speak with current students, graduates, and faculty. Ask for time-to-completion statistics and graduation rates. Complete the exercises in Ch. 1 of The Happy Doc Student Handbook. See episodes below.

· There are unique challenges for first-generation college students and navigating the unfamiliar territory of graduate school can add to an already stressful environment.

· Graduate school will happen in the context of your LIFE; there are no easy answers when it comes to deciding how to manage your own mental health, supporting others, building a career, etc.

· Knowing your core values is key; you will have to let some things go; be honest in terms of your priorities during this season.

· Embracing a part-time program may allow you to balance work, academia, and family life.

· Like stepping into a doctoral program, stepping out of one is also a big decision. Be cautious of “reacting." Instead, responded thoughtfully to these feelings (see the I-Think-I-Want-To-Stop activity in The Happy Doc Student Handbook).

· If you do decide to step out (whether forever or for a season), refrain from feelings of guilt/failure and listen to the Good Goodbye episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1547113/8016142

Connect with Adam
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-baldry-ab6501117/

Relevant episodes for when you are researching programs:
#2 The Doc Journey: Things You Need to Know (that they probably won't tell you)
#21 Should I Pursue a Doctoral Degree? with Dr. Chris Cappannelli
#31 Reality Check: Is a Doc Program for You? with Jamie Hillman
#53 Are We Teaching Students To Be Unhappy? with Dr. Leonard Cassuto
#69 Career Diversity & The Doctorate with Dr. Leonard Cassut

Relevant episodes for when you want to STOP:
#7 When You Want to Quit with Dr. Jodie Hemerda
#10 ABD, Limiting Beliefs and Giants with Dr. Scott Burru

Support the show

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Get The Happy Doc Student Handbook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0578333732
Other resources at: http://Expandyourhappy.com
Treat me to a green tea: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/expandyourhappy
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