Im starting a phd program in the fall but Im actually clueless about how the program works, so I decided to post anonymously on this forum.
My Situation:
-I want to "be a sociologist"
-I have interests and passions in the field, although more general than specific
-Im starting a phd program in sociology in a "good program," which has been described to me as "very competitive"
-My expectations of myself in the first year of the program: work diligently, develop relationships with faculty and my cohort, begin to narrow my interests/focus of study
My Question:
-How many classes per semester does a phd student take? Or at least, how many classes per semester for a first year student?
-How does a student get a TA or RA? Are they typically for students who receive funding? (I have no funding). What if I want one for the experience?
-What should my schedule look like as a first year? Mixture of class and TA/RA or just class?
-If you have any advice for a first year student, I would be very happy to hear it, especially in terms of finding an area of study and producing quality work
Thank you for taking the time to read and answer!
