The decision to continue for an advance degree is a significant one. As a result, there are several phases and processes that you must achieve. The selection of a school is one of the choices that you may make, in addition to your field of study. Continuing with the area of concentration that you studied in Undergraduate school may be an immediate thought for consideration, along with the possibilities of exploring new and different horizons. Whatever your decision; you decide to proceed; with possibly a streak of caution.
Researching your options at times becomes challenging and frustrating. Why is that? You may not be sure what is involved, in addition to the necessary steps to be successful at this stage. You realize that you need assistance; and real help and experience wouldn’t hurt. The question is: Who do you call? Most individuals (at this point) turn to individuals who has “gone before” by consulting the advice of an educational ancestor, so to speak.
These wise ones are able to share with you limited information that has you (at times) more clueless than you were before the conversation ever started. Unfortunately, you are still left with unanswered questions, in addition to a confused demeanor that is not warranted. What do you do now?
There are several options that may appear at this time. You may choose to do some (initial and superficial) soul-searching, to get some “right now” answers. Dependent on your level of seriousness and commitment, you may have a temporary victory. You are at a place that you want to know as much information as you can handle, but yet unsure of the questions to ask. Your uncertainty provides a sense of insecurity, while you remain confident on the exterior. Again, your options are not clear.
In the past, you realized that there were scenarios and professions that have established apprenticeships built in. For example, in the medical field, a Resident has a seasoned medical doctor who has completed his training and internship to ask those pointed questions. In some professions, it is favored that you have completed an internship of some sort prior to becoming a part of a team.
Unfortunately, the academic environment does not operate by this template. Individuals who seek and desire to advance to the next level of education are expected to navigate the hills and valleys that are inevitable: alone.
The art and concept of mentoring is not new. Although it has not been explored as a regular choice in the academic community, the benefits are positively affective. The origin and history of mentoring date back to the Greek era. There was an individual named “Mentor” who was the son of Alcimus and Asopis. Through interpersonal relationship, Mentor imparted knowledge and encouragement to Telemachus, (the son of Odysseus) who left to fight in the Trojan War. Mentor possessed the characteristic of imparting encouragement and practicality for those who were dealing with the tribulations of the day. In the present day, these adjectives have been given to those who possess the same characteristics. In modern times, the term “mentor” has been adopted, and is synonymous with those who impart wisdom to and shares knowledge with a less experienced individual. Even though these characteristics are admirable, an individual who is involved in the academic community may not seek out a mentor as a viable option.
Accountability. The word in itself is powerful and brings a sense of conviction. In order to become successful, having an accountability partner is crucial. Not only is this individual one who is able to share their thoughts and experience with you, they area also able to provide constructive vantage points in which you (if you are receptive) can move forward and advance to the next level.
When one considers the characteristics of a mentoring relationship, they may consider the benefits that they will receive. Although there will be several, it is important to understand that the true dynamics of a mentoring relationship allows for individuals to have a two-way street dynamics of communication; along with favorable benefits for both the mentor and mentee involved. Thought provoking questions that you may not have considered and answers that you did not expect, may assist you through the challenges that are unavoidable.
The process of enrolling and completing courses is one phase of the journey. Writing papers and researching ideas and theories are another. Preparing and taking your qualifying examinations are standards that are established; and must be fulfilled with excellence. Are you ready? The process of the Doctoral journey involves many levels of accomplishments that MUST be achieved, and it should be done with excellence. The journey also involves the process of becoming a scholar-practitioner. What exactly does that mean? A scholar-practitioner is an individual who is passionate about their field of study, has the ability to research it with understanding, along with the practical knowledge and application to share this information to those in the field and also to those who have no prior knowledge. They are equipped to be viewed as an authority. As you study, you are evolving in to a practical example of your knowledge base and have no reservations about your understanding. It just takes time.
As you reflect on the decision to pursue your Doctorate, please know that it is a journey that takes a significant time to achieve. You should know that the road is long, winding and worth it; if it is your true desire. Self-actualization is the key, and preparation for this educationally rewarding journey is worthy of your full attention and nothing less. Once you have had the answers revealed and you have reviewed and come to a conclusion with honesty, you will be ready for the journey. Don’t forget to enjoy the process and smell the roses along the way.
REFERENCES
Barnett, Claudia G. (2012). The Dissertation Process: A Step by Step Mentored Guide. www.thedissertationprocess.com
Roberts, Andy (1999). The origins of the term mentor”. History of Education Society Bulletin, No.64, November 1999, p. 313-329.
