Is Pursuing a Physics PhD at 40 Too Late?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the considerations and challenges of pursuing a PhD in physics at the age of 40. Participants explore personal experiences, potential barriers, and suggestions for acceptance into a program, particularly without scholarships.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concerns about the disadvantages of starting a physics PhD at an older age, citing personal experiences of discrimination in their country.
  • Another participant suggests the possibility of pursuing a part-time PhD, although this idea is met with skepticism as it appears unfamiliar to others.
  • There is a proposal that a full-time PhD is the preferred route, indicating a belief in the benefits of immersion in the program.
  • A participant raises questions about the timeline of the original poster's academic journey, specifically the duration since completing their master's degree and the timing of their publication, suggesting these factors are crucial for consideration.
  • The original poster shares that their master's program took four years and mentions an accident that delayed their studies, along with their teaching experience in various physics subjects.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to pursuing a PhD at an older age, with differing views on part-time versus full-time options and the impact of personal circumstances on acceptance into a program.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss personal experiences and challenges without resolving the implications of age on academic pursuits. The conversation reflects varying perspectives on discrimination and the feasibility of part-time PhD programs.

PeteSampras
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I know of infinites disadvantages of started a physics phd at my age.

I tried, but do not take me by my age...Chile, sudamerica. I have a Msc physics an one publication about brane world. At Chile , in my opinion exist very discourse about non discrimination, but there is much discrimination ...

But

that I can do to get accepted into a phd? ¿without scholarship??, ¿¿some suggestion? , ¿¿some country where i could be take account ?
 
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A PhD part time? I have never heard of this before.
 
there is only a idea...Phd a complete time also is my idea...
 
How long was it that you finished your masters? How long was it that you made your publication? And what did you do in the meanwhile. Those are very important questions.
 
in my study I took a lot 4 years, 2009-2012 ... I had misfortune of an accident, I was out one year...

My publication is from 2013...physical review D

Meanwhile i have professor of Mechanics, Electroagnetism, Thermodinamics,General Physics...
 
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