Is it worth transferring grad school for a change in research focus?

In summary, the speaker is a 2nd year PhD student who originally planned to focus on high energy phenomenology and theory in grad school. However, after working on a programming-based project in the past summer, they realized it was not a good fit for their abilities and now want to switch to theory and do more analytic work. Unfortunately, the theory faculty they were interested in working with is leaving the department and there may not be any other options for theory research at their current university. The speaker is considering transferring to another university, but is unsure if their reasons are legitimate. They have also not published any research yet. They are seeking advice on whether to transfer and are aware that starting over in a new field may be challenging.
  • #1
puzzled_grad
1
0
Hi,

I am a 2nd year international PhD student in a mid-tier US university. When I applied to grad school as an undergrad I intended to do high energy phenomenology and theory.

In the past summer I worked on a pheno project, which was my first project in grad school (was taking courses in first year). I enjoyed working with my adviser, but partly because it is programming-based, so are many research in pheno in general, I feel a mismatch of project nature and my ability. (Programming is always my worst part, and I never enjoy coding.)

I have a strong sense that I want to switch to theory and do more analytic work. So I approached the theory faculty I was interested in working when I applied 2 years ago but found that he was leaving the dept permanently. There is a good chance that the only other theory faculty is not taking new students, so I may not be able to switch to theory.

I am considering transferring to another uni, but not sure if the above will constitute legitimate reasons for this. I took QFT1&2 and did well and am reading string theory, if only these help...

Needing advice Thanks!

P.S. My dept offers terminal MS. I didn't publish (I just had my first project in grad school in summer, didn't go very well).
 
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  • #2
Is it a good reason for switching? Sure. Be aware that you are moving into an even more competitive field, and furthermore, even if the new school does the research you are interested in, they may not be able to support a new student on the right timescale. Also be aware that "transferring" isn't really a concept, except in special circumstances - like when a faculty member joins and takes his students with him. You should expect to start from the beginning.
 

1) What are the benefits of transferring to a different graduate school?

There are several potential benefits to transferring to a different graduate school, including the opportunity to work with different professors and research teams, access to new resources and facilities, and the chance to expand your academic network and gain new perspectives on your research.

2) How do I know if transferring to a different graduate school is the right decision for me?

Deciding to transfer to a different graduate school is a personal and complex decision. Some factors to consider include your academic and career goals, the program offerings and resources at the new school, and your personal and financial situation. It is important to thoroughly research and weigh your options before making a decision.

3) What steps do I need to take to transfer to a different graduate school?

The specific steps for transferring to a different graduate school may vary, but generally you will need to inform your current program of your intention to transfer, submit a formal application to the new school, and provide any necessary transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other materials. It is important to carefully follow the application instructions and deadlines provided by the new school.

4) Will my credits transfer to a different graduate school?

Transfer credit policies vary between schools, so it is important to check with the new school to see which credits may be transferable. In some cases, you may need to provide syllabi or other documentation to demonstrate the content of your previous coursework. Keep in mind that even if your credits do not transfer, the knowledge and skills you gained in your previous program can still be valuable.

5) Are there any potential challenges or drawbacks to transferring to a different graduate school?

Transferring to a different graduate school may come with some challenges, such as adjusting to a new program and academic culture, building relationships with new faculty and peers, and potentially needing to adapt to a different curriculum or research focus. Additionally, there may be financial or logistical considerations, such as the cost of relocating or the potential need to retake courses. It is important to carefully consider these potential challenges before making a decision to transfer.

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