Professors, avoid discouraging classes from pursuing PhDs: Opinion

Professors should avoid making broad statements to classes encouraging them not to pursue PhDs, writes Karly Ball. Ball argues that professors who make blanket statements warning students against pursuing a PhD may close the door to those who may benefit from PhD studies, but are unsure of how to begin the process of pursuing an application. These students are more likely to be from marginalized backgrounds and need guidance on the process, and approachable faculty can help address demographic gaps in PhD holders. Ball recommends that professors speak with students to find out why they are interested in a PhD and give them the information and tools they need to make an informed decision about their future studies. Inside Higher Ed (Subscription) Note: Archived stories may contain dead links or be missing source links.