What industry are you in?

I am in IT too!

[quek]

Originally Posted by phd wannabe

I am in IT too!

Are you going to do a PhD?

My only problem is that I don't need a PhD for the consulting role I am in now, but I would love to transit to a retirement job like lecturing in 10 years where I can contribute to the younger generation without much of a generation gap. Even so, my work experience will be deemed to be useless and I will be forced to churn papers, and the PhD if I have any will be obsolete. Such is the sad fact of life.

[quek]

Originally Posted by phd wannabe

My only problem is that I don't need a PhD for the consulting role I am in now, but I would love to transit to a retirement job like lecturing in 10 years where I can contribute to the younger generation without much of a generation gap. Even so, my work experience will be deemed to be useless and I will be forced to churn papers, and the PhD if I have any will be obsolete. Such is the sad fact of life.

But even if you get a PhD, you will need one from a good university. Local PhDs very rarely get into lecturing positions. Most of them are lucky to get post-doc roles outside of Singapore.

If you really like lecturing, you can consider getting a Masters degree (if you don't already have one) and teach in a poly. A far cry from a uni faculty position, but still a "lecturer" nonetheless.

May I know if you're working as a consultant in an MNC?

Hi adbie,

I enjoy transferring knowledge and making my customers successful; lecturing seems the natural path for me. I have a MSc, and might look into pursuing a PhD. Did consider lecturing in polytechnics before; but the pay is a far cry from what I am getting. I am looking into doing some consulting on the side for the Uni/my business as well; being in the Uni seems better.

The only problem is paper churning. I am a very practical person; I like solving problems. Publishing is generally theoretical, and we have a huge gap in our university between translating research to practical applications; unlike Stanford. Need to see if I fit into the culture too.

Consulting is pretty much free and easy =) Work anywhere you want, anytime you want after gathering requirements. Normal work life is different...

Ah enough of my rant and random thoughts, what about you? What are your plans moving forward?

[bjhchong]

Wow Phd Wannabe,

Am interested in finding out how you get into the consulting job in the first place!

Care to share?

Thnx!

Hi bjhchong,

Yup sure. I was fortunate enough to have my MSc recognized and that opened up inroads for me into technical consulting. The interviews (5-7 rounds) were tough as the candidates earmarked by the headhunters had pretty good experience and knowledge, but I think I was fortunate to be a better fit in this young and dynamic organization. All I can say is to have eyes wide opened, and be at the right place and at the right time, and have razor sharp resume to secure the interview. After that, well, is show time!

[bjhchong]

Whoa, wannabe,

You must be quite impressive when you present... Thanks for sharing!

Just fortunate to be at the right place and the right time mate =)

[quek]

Originally Posted by teracious McDonnell

Just fortunate to be at the right place and the right time mate =)

Is that you, phd wannabe? How much proportion do you think luck plays a part in one's success?