Is Starting a Ph.D. After 30 Uncommon?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concerns of two individuals who are considering pursuing further education later in life. One is 31 and starting a Ph.D. program, while the other is 33 and considering going to grad school after 9 years. They discuss the potential challenges and experiences of being older than their peers, and share advice on how to cope with this. The individual who is 30 also expresses concerns about their application, as they have been away from academia for some time and have not had any recent research experience. They question if this may affect their chances of admission and consider doing research part-time while also working as a high school physics teacher.
  • #1
copernicus1
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Hi, is there anyone here who started working on their Ph.D. after 30? I will be 31 when I start later this year, and I'm wondering how atypical this is. Any advice? Thanks!
 
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  • #2
I'm 33 and doing my (first) undergrad in CS and math. I'm definitely quite older than every TA I've ever encountered, i.e. the PhD students at my school, so my guess is, yes, you might be a little atypical. Then again, you won't be as atypical as me so I expect you will cope just as I have : )

I was quite concerned about my age when I first started. What my experiences have taught me is that if you kick *** no one cares how old you are.
 
  • #3
Sorry to necro post, but I'm 30 and seriously considering going to grad school 9 years later. My biggest problem right now is that I'm not really sure how to go about getting a strong application, etc. I've been going over my upper-level coursework and getting ready for the physics GRE (which I plan to take next April), but I haven't had any research experience since my last year as an undergrad and all the classes I've taken since then are education related, not anything technical. Do you think admissions might be skeptical of someone who has been away for so long? Would they want to see me do some sort of research part-time on the side? I'm currently a high school physics teacher if that helps at all.
 

FAQ: Is Starting a Ph.D. After 30 Uncommon?

Can I still be successful in grad school if I am starting after the age of 30?

Yes, age does not determine success in grad school. Many successful individuals have started their graduate studies after the age of 30 and have excelled in their fields.

Will I be at a disadvantage compared to younger students?

No, starting grad school after 30 does not put you at a disadvantage. In fact, older students often bring a wealth of life experience and maturity to their studies, which can be beneficial in the academic setting.

How should I balance work and family responsibilities while pursuing a graduate degree?

It is important to have a good support system in place and to communicate with your family and employer about your academic commitments. You may also need to make adjustments to your schedule and prioritize your time effectively.

Is it common for people to start grad school after 30?

Yes, it is becoming increasingly common for individuals to start their graduate studies later in life. Many universities and programs have a diverse range of students, including those who have started grad school after 30.

What are some benefits of starting grad school after 30?

Starting grad school after 30 can bring a unique perspective and life experience to your studies. It can also lead to new career opportunities, personal growth, and a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, many universities offer financial aid and support for older students.

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