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I'm planning to take a career risk

Just want to tell some more unbiased people so I can get some unbiased opinions.

I'm planning to quit my job without having another job lined up. I've come to this conclusion after a lot of careful consideration.

I'm applying to PhD programs, and I'm 99% sure I'll get into at least one of the programs I apply to. I have a Masters degree from one of the top 5 universities in the world, and I have just secured promises of recommendation letters from three top professors. So, if I apply now, I'll likely be admitted and begin my PhD by September 2023.

I'm also applying to jobs that I can work in before then. I've sent out a couple of applications and I think I'm a pretty strong candidate. I also want to attend some in person career fairs which I can't do with my current job, of course.

I have money saved to last me for the next 2 months, and I spoke to my dad who is willing to support me for a little while longer than that before I find a new job. I don't think finding a new job should take that long for me.

I think I've covered all my bases, and so I'm ready to quit. This current job is in no way relevant for my future career or life path- so it doesn't make any sense for me to stay anymore.
th3r0n · 41-45, M
It's easier to get a job when you have a job because of the mentality of hiring managers

They look at you like something is wrong with you if you're not working for a period of time

My only suggestion here is get another job before quitting until you're in the PhD program
WhateverWorks · 36-40
Nothing to add, except that I agree with the below advice. Even though you have a decent safety net the below advice are all valid points. I don’t agree about the phd being a waste necessarily though. Really depends on your goals. In my field a masters is sufficient and there’s no pay increase if you have a phd. However, if I wanted to go into research a phd would be necessary and worth the expense.
somedude15 · 26-30, M
@WhateverWorks my goal is to work in research! Don't necessarily care about a pay increase, although I'm certain I will be more valuable with my PhD. Definitely appreciate your insights but I think I'm convinced I'm going to take the plunge! For some more reasons I didn't state here lol
WhateverWorks · 36-40
Yeah, if research is your goal the PhD is definitely necessary for access to research lab/materials and any hope of publication @somedude15
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somedude15 · 26-30, M
@jshm2 I have zero debt, and every cent of my PhD would be fully paid for by the school I'm doing it at

 
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