Why a PhD?

[Diane R. Chen]

I am pondering pursuing the PhD. I can see in just 1.4 years the last son leaving home, being debt free in 2 years, and needing a new challenge. Any suggestions as to best programs, scholarships, reasons to pursue?

[steve stone]

I think it is great that you are looking for a new challenge. I think it makes more sense to look at where you want to be, and then see if a PhD is needed (or helpful) in getting there.

If you want to get a tenure-track job in a library school, yes, a PhD is probably necessary. But if you want to teach classes in a library school, as an adjunct, then you probably DON'T need to get your PhD.

I could refer you back to _What Color is Your Parachute_ or Po Bronson's Book _What Should I Do With My Life_, but you may have already thought of those.

I see a PhD as a step along a path. It makes sense to make sure you are on the right path, and that the PhD is heading you in the right direction. I'm also of the mind that a little idleness is not useless. You might take a year and see what you are interested in now that you have a house with no children and your bills are all paid up.