We all started out in the PhD program for similar reasons – we thought it would be best for our careers, we enjoyed doing scientific research, and probably believed that science was our vocation. But what about those of us that end up in labs that don’t suit our needs, or research just doesn’t make us happy anymore? While everyone hits a rough patch in the PhD journey, it is inevitable that some of us will find ourselves downright miserable for months or years in a row. And while some will reevaluate their career paths and make life changes accordingly, many keep plodding on, afraid to ask the question: What if I just leave?
I spoke with two people, whom I will refer to as Roger and Miranda. Both left their institutions with MS degrees after several years of working at the PhD, and both believe that there are others in their respective programs who would benefit from doing the same. The option to leave with an MS is rarely discussed with graduate students – and we all know more folks who switched labs and started again, than people that left academia sans a doctorate and never looked back. I decided that this is an important topic, and so I tracked down Roger and Miranda in order to learn more about their personal experiences and their journey through graduation and beyond. Here is what they had to say:
- The first and obvious question: what was your situation? Why did you graduate fast, instead of finishing up the PhD? How did you build up to the idea, and what pushed you over the edge?
Miranda: I think a number of things went into the calculation. I wasn't as good at it as I had thought I might have been, and I had a family health situation come up that I couldn't deal with while still maintaining the level of attention needed for the PhD work. That was what really clinched it for me.
Roger: The reason why I decided to graduate with a Master’s degree instead of a PhD was lack of funding in the laboratory. This situation pushed me to two options; either switch to another lab, which meant starting all over again, or graduate with the MS (which I did).
- How long did it take from the moment you made up your mind, and what were some of the arrangements you needed to make to prepare for the transition?
Miranda: I think it was about three months from the first talk with my PI to my defense and exit. Most of the arrangements were just preparing the thesis and setting up a defense.
Roger: It took me about two months to make the decision, but before I made up my mind, I first went and talked to another professor to switch labs, went to a career fair, spoke with my academic advisor and my psychologist. Once I made the decision, I talked to my PI and committee, and everything moved pretty quickly from there on.
- How did your PI respond to your decision?
Miranda: My PI had always been a great mentor, and was supportive and understanding of my choice and my reasoning for making it.
Roger: At first my PI wanted me to stay and work in the lab, giving me more time to put out publications, but in the end my PI provided me with all the support that I needed for what was best for me.
- What changes did you make in your original career path, and where are you now?
Miranda: I decided not to continue on a bench work science career path, and looked into alternative careers that still would allow me to put my knowledge to work. Science writing, patent law, lab management, and others are all jobs that require a good science background, and I am now working towards employment in one of those areas.
Roger: Currently, I haven’t made any big changes at all…I am still working in science research but in a different environment. I’m working for the US military as a Research Assistant for the Military HIV Research Program (MHRP).
- Do you think you still benefitted from your experience as a science PhD student, even if you no longer wanted to be one?
Miranda: Certainly. I learned a lot about myself in grad school, and met a lot of wonderful people. Having an advanced degree in the sciences also opens doors in other career paths.
Roger: There is no doubt that my experience as a science PhD student helped me grow both professionally and personally. I don’t regret being a science PhD student at all… my passion for science is still strong.
- What other circumstances do you think people can find themselves in that should make them consider leaving without finishing the PhD?
Miranda: It really comes down to you. If you don't see yourself being productive and happy, it may not be worth it. For me, I enjoyed what I did, but family circumstances and a waning desire to continue the career trajectory were what really sealed it. It is important to occasionally take stock of where you are in life, no matter what you are doing, and to be honest with yourself. A PhD isn't something you should do just because you feel obligated or because you don't have anything else to do.
Roger: Other circumstances can be lack of support from members of the lab, project isn’t working at all (no signs of moving forward for a long time), etc. but every person’s situation can be different and only that person can set the boundaries for when to consider a change in career path.
- What advice would you give to a student considering leaving the PhD program and graduating with the MS?
Miranda: Discuss the situation with your PI as soon as possible. This accomplishes two things: one, it lets the PI know there is an issue and allows them to help you plan your thesis and defense, and two, it gives the PI advance notice of something that impacts them financially. I would also advise looking into alternate career paths early on. As a practical matter, it's not the friendliest job market, and you want to have some idea of a new career path. This requires homework, of course, but it is well worth the time investment. Be mindful that some alternate career paths will require further education or certification.
Roger: My advice is, do not feel ashamed for considering leaving a PhD program! I know people will always judge and there is the pressure to stay, but the most important thing is to find that career path that suits you and brings happiness to your life!
I hope these two students’ experiences have provided helpful advice to any readers out there facing similar situations. Remember that, while the PhD is supposed to be difficult, it is not meant to be emotionally crippling and if you find you have lost your love for science, research, or both and still have years left to go, it might be best to look into a change in career path. We wish you all the best of luck!