Welcome to My Blog!
Hi there! If you’ve been thinking about getting a Ph.D. but find yourself hesitating because you have a family, a career, and a stable life in your 30s (or beyond), then you’re in the right place, pal!
I’m Mila, and I started my Ph.D. journey in my 30s. Life had been quite stable for me—I had a loving family, a supportive work environment, and great friends. My husband and I both worked, which meant we weren’t worried about financial security. We had a home, stability, and a fulfilling life. So, what was the problem?
The Turning Point
A few years ago, before I started my Ph.D. journey in 2024, I found myself reflecting on my future. I wondered: What would my future look like? How would my environment, my loved ones, and my field of interest—education—evolve over time? More importantly, I looked inward. What had I achieved? Where would this stability take me? What was my purpose?
These questions led me to realize that I needed to do something to make my life more meaningful—not just for myself, but for the people around me and for my future legacy.
Learning from Inspiring Figures
As I searched for answers, I immersed myself in the lives of inspiring figures in education—people who brought meaningful change to others. I read their biographies, studied their journeys, and discovered three key lessons that shaped my decision:
1. Have a Belief in Life
These figures shared a common thread—a deep-rooted belief in something greater than themselves, often rooted in humanity and purpose. In my case, I wasn’t entirely sure what my core belief was, but I knew that discovering it would be a driving force in this journey.
2. Do Not Wait for the Right Time
You’ve probably heard the saying, “The right time is now.” I used to think I had to wait for the perfect moment to begin a Ph.D.—when I was fully ready, when my circumstances were ideal. But I realized that opportunities come when you make yourself ready. If you wait for the “perfect time,” you might never start.
3. Build Your System
Success isn’t just about passion or motivation—it’s about having a system. The inspiring figures I studied all had structured routines and habits that kept them moving forward. A well-built system makes life easier and more purposeful over time.
Why a Ph.D.?
Of course, you don’t need a Ph.D. to be an inspiring person. You can pursue your passions and make an impact in countless ways. However, for me—someone deeply passionate about education and teaching—earning a Ph.D. felt like the right path to maximize my impact and grow into a more influential role.
So, was this the only reason I pursued a Ph.D.? Not exactly. But the persistent questions about my life’s purpose and how I could be more useful kept pushing me forward. That’s when I knew I needed to step out of my comfort zone and embrace something different.
Join Me on This Journey!
Thank you for stopping by my blog! I’m also sharing my struggles as a 30-something woman navigating the Ph.D. journey, so if you’re curious, stick around—I’d love to have you along for the ride!
