If you are considering a PhD, I advise you not to hesitate. When starting the journey, I recommend going into the process knowing that it will stretch you intellectually, emotionally, & professionally, but also transform you. You will gain the tools to analyze the world's most pressing challenges and to research actionable solutions. True change requires curiosity, rigor, & persistence. A PhD in Geographic Education equips you to lead that change and to leave the world better than you found it.
"My advice to prospective students is two-fold: be organized and be proactive. The most challenging aspect of the program is balancing our busy lives (job and family obligations) with the rigors of a graduate program. For every class you should organize all of the readings with notes for future reference. You may need these resources when you take the comprehensive exams and/or when you are building your literature review for your dissertation. Take advantage of the university resources such as the Graduate College’s or Alkek Library’s online workshop sessions. Some of these are very helpful in learning new software or techniques for research and writing. Plan early for your dissertation project. Whether it is coordinating through the school where you work or reaching out to an organization, you will need to establish the connections necessary for conducting research with their teachers or students. Finally, make the effort to get to know the other grad students in the program. While networking with other students is always a good idea for career purposes, it is even more important to have the social connection with others going through the same struggles as you. You are not alone and, as educators, we share a mission to lift each other up and offer support throughout this journey." - Lisa Elikan, Spring 2025 Graduate
As with everything else, the experience is what you make it. My journey through the PhD program challenged and pushed me in ways I never imagined possible, but it is because I wanted a rigorous experience. I am thankful for the knowledgeable professors who pushed me to become a better writer, researcher, and thinker so that I can make meaningful contributions to the field of geography education.
“Based on my experience, I would advise prospective students to believe in themselves and take the leap. It is feasible to balance work and family commitments while also in the program, but it takes organization, time management, and also flexibility. Things may not always go as planned, but if you stay on top of your courses and classwork, you will prevail. Understand your dissertation research may also take a detour and that's okay, this is all part of the process. Focus on your end goal, take care of yourself, and you can be successful. I also recommend making friends with your cohort, having their support is instrumental, and it's nice to know you are not alone in this whole process. You will build some great relationships. Finally, take it one step at a time. It can be daunting when you are first starting out, but the program is designed to scaffold and support you, as will the faculty and staff. Before you know it, you too will be at graduation. A PhD in geography education will give you the ability to grow as a human and contribute to the field, ultimately making the world a better place." - Licia Paulus, Fall 2025 Graduate