(Long-time lurker here. Grad Cafe was very helpful with my applications last year. Keeping the personal details to a minimum for obvious reasons.)
I'm currently in the first year of a philosophy PhD program and I think I want to drop out. My program is good, the department has a welcoming atmosphere, but I just don't feel like I enjoy philosophy enough to keep doing it indefinitely. I like philosophy but I think I'd be happier in another job. Given how tough the job market is at the moment I don't feel like it's worth staying on the program when I could be happier doing something else.
I'm sorry if the above sounds ungrateful. I realize that a lot of people desperately want to get into a PhD program and get shut out. I really thought I wanted to do a PhD in philosophy this time last year. Only when I started my program did I realize that academia probably isn't right for me.
So here's my question: Should I drop out at the end of my 1st year or should I hold out for a second year?
At the moment, I think staying on for a second year would be the better option. If I stay for 2 years I will leave my program with some teaching experience, and by teaching I will also be able to give something back to my department. Plus, if I stay on for two years I might have a shot at applying for a Master's degree. Does anyone know what the chances of being awarded a master's degree after 2 years on a PhD program are? Obviously I can't ask other grad students or faculty in my department without letting them know I'm thinking of dropping out.
Thoughts appreciated.