Posts tagged university of memphis

Here’s my attempt at a personal blog post, as per my 2010 Goals:

As I’m sure you’re aware, I’ve been a graduate student at the University of Memphis for the last 2 years. It’s been difficult, eye-opening, and a whole bunch of other things. Now I’m nearing the end of my MS in Psychology, and I’m looking toward the future. The only problem… there’s a fork in the road.

Do I stick around and complete a PhD, or hit the work world and start collecting a real paycheck?

For many people this would be a simple question. You’re either the academic type or you’re not. But like a lot of graduate students, I have no idea what I am. Research is not my great love. I also don’t live for the IRB, publication, grant-getting, etc. On the job front, my interests and career aspirations are incredibly eclectic – a product of my entrepreneurial experiences over the last few years. My skills are in statistics, training, WordPress websites, marketing, copywriting, product development, etc. I like meeting people, traveling, coming up with new ideas, working independently (most of the time), and making money. My wife would say that making money is my greatest love. And that’s partially true – I won’t hide my affinity for living it up!

So here it is… the clock is counting down to my decision. On April 15th (also tax day – geez what a terrible coincidence), I have to accept or decline my spot in the Experimental Psychology PhD program at Memphis.

Let me think positively for a moment… whatever decision I make, it will be the right decision. You can always find happiness somewhere. Whether I am Dr. or Mr. Reuben Rock for the rest of my life is not really important. What is important is that I have a beautiful wife, lovely house, profitable business, and an assortment of friends and hobbies.

Any advice for a 24 year old caught between academics and the workforce? I’d appreciate your insights in the comments!

Here’s to my quarter life crisis,
Reuben D. Rock