When I finished my masters program in May 2009, I declared to everyone, “I’m done with school forever.” Fast forward a few months, and I found myself considering applying to a doctoral program. When I spoke with the program chair on the phone, a portion of our conversation sounded a lot like this:
Me: “What are you looking for in an applicant?”
Chair: “Well, we want someone with leadership experience in higher education who is experiencing the itch to go back to school.”
Me: “The itch?”
Chair: “Yes, the itch. We don’t want someone that’s applying just because they feel it’s the next step. This is a time-intensive program, and we expect you to complete your dissertation in 3.5 – 5 years. In order to do that, you need to be chomping at the bit to get back to school.”
That phone call was in November. I knew I wanted to do research on social media and student engagement, and I had a lot of time on my hands now that I was no longer in class. I started my admissions essay in December, and then let it sit on the back burner. I was amazed when I picked it up again yesterday and found myself enjoying writing. I even took the time to look up 6th edition APA changes and didn’t cringe. Even more than research and reading, I enjoy writing. I suppose that will come in handy if I need to write a dissertation in a few years.
The application isn’t even in the mail yet, and I don’t know if I’ll get in. What I know is the process has rejuvenated me professionally. I guess I’m one of those perpetual learners who isn’t content to sit and twiddle her thumbs after finishing school. I need to keep looking for challenges through work or school to stay motivated. One thing’s for sure, if everything pans out I won’t be short on challenges for the next few years.
Have you thought about taking the next step in your education, either through a degree program, training institute, or other form of learning? What entices you to do so, or what has hindered you?
