I'm at work on a novel in which one of the characters is getting a PhD in sociology. I'm wondering if any real sociology grad students can help me as I attempt to impersonate one in my novel. Here are some questions I have.
How does my character come up with her dissertation topic, and what exactly constitutes a good dissertation topic?
For the purposes of my story, I know that she's doing qualitative research. And I think (but am not sure) that her topic has something to do with class and/or first gen college students.
What motivates people to get a PhD in sociology? Is it personal? Intellectual curiosity? A wish to change things?
The more answers and possibilities and the more specifics, the better. Thank you to anyone who takes the time to respond. I really appreciate it.
