On PhD Dear folks who approach me and ask about PhD program: I don't feel myself competent enough to answer your questions, and I assume you all would prefer an honest answer "I don't know" to my deliberation on the subject that would be of doubtful credibility. I think the following materials can help you to make informed decision, please, take a look at essay on PhD degree from two very competent people: Gopal Gupta of UTD Douglas Comer of Purdue Univesity Also, think of some faculty whose classes you liked, schedule an appointment and talk to them. Most of faculty have PhD degrees, and although it's not their job, they will be more than happy to tell you why they have chosen to get (or not to get) a PhD degree. You will be getting a very competent opinion that is worth trusting. Graduate academic advisors, Judy and Emebet, are very approachable and extraordinary helpful in all what concerns procedural part of the program. My only personal recommendation is that you better work for a year or two before enrolling in PhD program, if you haven't yet ever had full-time employment that lasted more than one year. Even though it's harder to get back to school after having job, work will provide you with experience that you can't learn at school. My work experience helps me a lot and provides me a huge motivation to keep trying hard during difficult times. If during your investigation you come accross some ideas (your own or of others) that could help other students to make an informed decision, please, share them and I'll post them here. Oh, and the last thing: see the title of this page :)