Trust me, I understand idealism and in a perfect world I would completely follow my interests. But, taking so many years out of my life already for grad school while I make my family suffer--a big move, long weird hours, stress and little money--makes me think that after I get out, I need a job--quickly and well paying. Maybe, it would be different if it was just me and I could possibly take another year to find a job within my specific interest. I think I am going to write my dissertation within my interests but also specialize in something very popular. (ie. I understand that medical sociology grads are very much in demand at the moment and have amazing job prospects.) But, I don't know yet what that specialization might be.