I am posting this, sadly, for an “emeritus” professor was just wanting to insult me because of my age. I am 36 female. I started my literature phd in my late twenties after several years’ working experience and now at the final dissertation stage. My personal experience told me that theoretically you should be welcome in graduate schools no matter how old you are. But prejudice is a silent part beyond your control. Some of my colleagues who do not have working experience secretly gossip about people’s age. Although I do not consider myself old, I still do not feel comfortable about this. And, when professors become unhappy, they will insult you in every possible way, including your age. Many professors earn their phds at 30 or even younger and they see themselves as elites. Many of these people are arrogant and can become very rude when unhappy. Be prepared for these things, if you are planning to start your phds at 30 or older.
