I QUIT MY PhD | Why you shouldn't do a PhD

Summary

In this heartfelt video, the speaker reflects on their decision to leave their PhD program in physics after struggling with a research topic that didn't align with their passion. Despite a long-held dream of pursuing a PhD, the speaker found themselves at a crossroads when they couldn't shift their focus to areas that truly interested them, like machine learning in astrophysics. They discuss the emotional turmoil, the challenges of transitioning away from academia, and the process of seeking career options outside of research, all while emphasizing the importance of following one's passions and making decisions for personal growth.

Takeaways

• 😀 The decision to quit a PhD is emotionally difficult, especially after years of pursuing it as a dream.
• 😀 The initial excitement for a PhD can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations or misconceptions about the path ahead.
• 😀 Unexpected changes, like the inability to secure funding or the misalignment of research interests, can lead to major career shifts.
• 😀 Switching research topics, especially in a completely different field, can feel like abandoning a long-term goal, but sometimes it's necessary for personal growth.
• 😀 Pursuing a PhD in observational astronomy didn't feel like the right fit for the individual, despite its potential career benefits.
• 😀 A newfound passion for machine learning, especially applied to astrophysics, conflicted with the limitations of the PhD grant requirements.
• 😀 Quitting the PhD program was a hard decision, leading to a lot of self-doubt, tears, and feelings of letting others down.
• 😀 The decision to quit wasn't about failure; it was about prioritizing personal happiness, passion, and well-being over rigid academic expectations.
• 😀 Transitioning from academia to industry, especially in fields like machine learning, brings new challenges, such as understanding how to apply academic skills in a non-academic setting.
• 😀 Despite the hardships, the individual does not regret the PhD experience because of the valuable lessons learned and the skills gained, especially in research and self-awareness.

Q & A

Why did the speaker decide to quit their PhD program?

The speaker decided to quit their PhD program because they realized that the research topic they were working on in observational astronomy was not a good fit for them. They developed a strong interest in machine learning applied to astrophysics, but due to strict grant requirements, they could not change their research direction.

How did the speaker feel about the decision to leave the PhD program?

The speaker felt emotional, overwhelmed, and conflicted about quitting their PhD. They cried for months and struggled with feelings of disappointment, both toward themselves and their family, who had supported their academic journey.

What challenges did the speaker face during their transition out of the PhD program?

The speaker faced several challenges, including the emotional difficulty of quitting, the fear of starting over with a new PhD or career, and the confusion of navigating the non-academic job market. They also struggled with the idea of letting down their family and the pressure to continue in Academia.

How did the speaker approach their decision-making process?

The speaker reflected on their personal passion for machine learning and physics, which led them to conclude that pursuing a career in these areas would be more fulfilling. They acknowledged the need for a supportive environment and the importance of focusing on future opportunities.

What did the speaker learn from their time in the PhD program?

The speaker learned a lot about themselves, their interests, and their professional relationships. They gained valuable skills in machine learning and realized that pursuing a PhD should be driven by passion and not just external expectations.

Why does the speaker still recommend pursuing a PhD despite their own struggles?

The speaker still recommends pursuing a PhD if someone is passionate about the subject, as it provides an opportunity for deep research and self-discovery. They emphasize the importance of finding a good supervisor and a topic that genuinely excites you.

What advice does the speaker offer for those considering a PhD?

The speaker advises individuals considering a PhD to find a research topic that they are truly passionate about, to work with a supportive supervisor, and to be open to exploring new areas of research. They also recommend taking time off between a master's and PhD to gain practical experience.

What are the speaker's future plans after quitting the PhD?

The speaker plans to explore opportunities in industry, particularly in machine learning, which aligns with their interests. They are also considering applying for new PhD positions, but are focused on finding a path that makes them happy and fulfilled.

How does the speaker view the relationship between Academia and industry?

The speaker does not see Academia as superior to industry. They believe the key factor in choosing between the two is not the environment but the type of work one will be doing. They see potential in both sectors but are more focused on finding a job that excites them.

What role has the YouTube channel played in the speaker's journey?

The YouTube channel has been an important part of the speaker's journey, providing emotional support and helping them maintain a connection with others. The feedback and engagement from viewers have positively impacted their mental health during difficult times.