Why I Chose to Do a PhD: A Personal Reflection
Pursuing a PhD is not a decision made lightly. It’s a long, often winding journey that demands years of commitment, resilience, and deep intellectual curiosity. When people ask me why I chose to do a PhD, they often expect a straightforward answer—perhaps something about career goals or a love of research. While those reasons certainly played a part, the full story is much more personal, complex, and deeply rooted in my identity and aspirations. In this blog post, I want to share my personal journey and the various factors—academic, professional, and emotional—that influenced my decision to chose to do a PhD. Whether you’re contemplating a PhD yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the motivations behind such a decision, I hope this reflection offers insight and perhaps a sense of solidarity.
The Spark: A Love for Learning
From a young age, I was drawn to knowledge—not just facts, but the process of discovering how things work, questioning the status quo, and diving deep into subjects that fascinated me. School was more than a requirement; it was an adventure. I enjoyed exploring new concepts, debating theories, and pushing the boundaries of what I thought I knew.
During my undergraduate years, I began to realize that I wasn’t satisfied with surface-level understanding. I didn’t want to just pass exams—I wanted to ask “why” and “how” until I reached the core of the issue. This thirst for depth is what first nudged me toward considering research as a long-term path.
A Deepening Curiosity in My Field
One of the most compelling reasons I chose to do a PhD was my growing interest in a very specific area of my discipline. While many of my peers were focused on landing jobs right after graduation, I found myself spending hours reading journal articles, exploring niche topics, and imagining ways to contribute original ideas.
The idea that I could spend years immersed in a subject I was passionate about—and that I might actually add something new to the academic community—was thrilling. A PhD wasn’t just about studying longer; it was about creating knowledge, solving real-world problems, and becoming a true expert.
Mentorship and Encouragement
Another powerful influence in my decision was the mentorship I received during my undergraduate and postgraduate studies. I was fortunate to have professors who saw potential in me and encouraged me to consider academic research. Their guidance, combined with the opportunities I had to assist with research projects, gave me a glimpse into the life of a scholar.
Their support helped me believe that a PhD was not only within reach but also a worthwhile pursuit. When someone you respect sees something in you that you haven’t fully recognized in yourself, it can be transformative.
Career Aspirations and Long-Term Vision
Let’s talk career. While passion and curiosity were central to my decision, practical considerations also played a role. I knew that a PhD could open doors that would otherwise remain closed. Whether I wanted to become a university professor, lead research in an industry setting, or consult on high-level projects, having a doctorate would give me both credibility and opportunity.
More than that, I wanted a career where I could think deeply, write meaningfully, and have an impact. The kind of career I envisioned—one built on thought leadership and innovation—aligned closely with the path a PhD offers.
Embracing the Challenge
I’ve always believed that growth comes from challenge. A PhD is undoubtedly one of the most intellectually and emotionally challenging pursuits you can undertake. The idea of pushing my limits, of stretching myself in ways I couldn’t yet imagine, was strangely appealing.
Of course, I didn’t go in blindly. I spoke to PhD students, read about the ups and downs of doctoral life, and reflected on whether I had the resilience to endure it. In the end, the answer was yes—not because I expected it to be easy, but because I believed it would be worth it.
A Desire to Make a Difference
At its core, my decision to pursue a PhD was driven by a desire to make a difference—not just in academia, but in the wider world. Research, when done thoughtfully and ethically, can lead to real change. Whether it’s influencing policy, informing best practices, or offering new ways of understanding complex issues, a PhD gives you the tools to contribute meaningfully.
I wanted my work to matter. I wanted to be part of conversations that shaped the future of my field. And I believed that the best way to do that was through rigorous, sustained research.
Personal Fulfillment
There’s a deeply personal aspect to this journey as well. Coming from a background where higher education was not always accessible, pursuing a PhD was also about breaking barriers—both societal and personal. It was about proving to myself that I could do it. That I was capable. That I had something valuable to offer.
This journey is not just academic; it’s transformative. It challenges you to grow intellectually, emotionally, and even spiritually. Every milestone—whether it’s getting a paper published, presenting at a conference, or completing a difficult chapter—feels like a small victory, a testament to persistence and purpose.
The Reality Check
That said, it’s important to acknowledge that a PhD is not for everyone. It comes with sacrifices: financial uncertainty, delayed career progression, mental health struggles, and a sometimes isolating environment. I’ve had moments of doubt, burnout, and frustration.
But through it all, what has kept me going is the clarity of my “why.” Knowing why I started—and reminding myself of that on hard days—has been crucial. It’s not always about passion; sometimes it’s about commitment and perseverance.
Final Thoughts: Would I Do It Again?
Absolutely. Despite the challenges, the late nights, and the moments of self-doubt, I have never regretted that I chose to do a PhD. It has shaped me in ways I never anticipated. It has taught me how to think critically, how to handle failure, and how to keep going when things get tough.
More than that, it has given me a sense of purpose and a platform to pursue meaningful work. For those who are considering this path, I would say: make sure your reasons for why you chose to do a PhD are clear and personal. A PhD is not just another degree—it’s a journey that demands everything you’ve got.
But if your “why” is strong enough, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
Kenfra Research understands the challenges faced by PhD scholars and offers tailored solutions to support your academic goals. From topic selection to advanced plagiarism checking.
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