- #1
Dubz123
- 3
- 0
Hello all,
I am seeking some career guidance because I have found myself in an unexpected circumstance. I recently found out (within the past month) that my Ph.D. funding will run out at the end of next semester. I still have years to go until I'm able to defend a dissertation so I feel that my back is against the wall in this situation. After reviewing my options I feel that the most appropriate solution is to convert my Mechanical Engineering Ph.D. into an M.S. degree (in Mechanical Engineering) and graduate by the time my funding is fully exhausted. Now the question is what jobs are out there for someone like me?
I currently hold a B.A. in Economics, a B.S. in Physics, and an M.S. in Physics. My M.S. in Mechanical Engineering will come at the conclusion of Spring 2012. I have some hands-on project experience and have interned at NASA a few years ago. I seem to favor the aerospace industry but I am very open minded to employment in other industries as well.
What type of jobs should I be looking for? Will my lack of a Ph.D. hurt my earning potential or career advancement opportunities? What would a reasonable salary be for my first job? (I'm trying to figure out what I'm "worth" so I know what the fair market price is for my employment.) I won't lie, I'll probably end up taking whatever job offers me the most money... unless there is a significantly more interesting job for slightly less.
I'm still reeling from the impact of my loss of funding and don't yet have a clear career direction. I would appreciate anyone's advice... especially if you are currently employed in industry. Thanks!
I am seeking some career guidance because I have found myself in an unexpected circumstance. I recently found out (within the past month) that my Ph.D. funding will run out at the end of next semester. I still have years to go until I'm able to defend a dissertation so I feel that my back is against the wall in this situation. After reviewing my options I feel that the most appropriate solution is to convert my Mechanical Engineering Ph.D. into an M.S. degree (in Mechanical Engineering) and graduate by the time my funding is fully exhausted. Now the question is what jobs are out there for someone like me?
I currently hold a B.A. in Economics, a B.S. in Physics, and an M.S. in Physics. My M.S. in Mechanical Engineering will come at the conclusion of Spring 2012. I have some hands-on project experience and have interned at NASA a few years ago. I seem to favor the aerospace industry but I am very open minded to employment in other industries as well.
What type of jobs should I be looking for? Will my lack of a Ph.D. hurt my earning potential or career advancement opportunities? What would a reasonable salary be for my first job? (I'm trying to figure out what I'm "worth" so I know what the fair market price is for my employment.) I won't lie, I'll probably end up taking whatever job offers me the most money... unless there is a significantly more interesting job for slightly less.
I'm still reeling from the impact of my loss of funding and don't yet have a clear career direction. I would appreciate anyone's advice... especially if you are currently employed in industry. Thanks!