For you parents out there getting science PhDs

[genotype]

Hi everyone,

I am applying to a PhD program to start in Fall 2010. I have been enrolled in a doctoral program before (about 10 years ago) but had to leave with an M.A. due to personal and financial (not academic) reasons. In the meantime I got married and had two kids. I am currently working full time with a long commute, and I certainly do not anticipate any sort of reduction in hours in graduate school. My question to those of you who are in a similar position is, how do you personally manage your time? How much freedom do you have regarding things like picking your kids up from school, taking some time off during school vacations, etc. I am thinking along the lines of taking a bit of time in the afternoon to stay with the kids after school, and then returning to the lab once my husband gets home (not putting in less time overall). I am very motivated to do well this time around and just want to have realistic expectations. I realize that it may very well have to be 10 hour days in the lab with very little family time.

Your thoughts would be much appreciated!

Edited January 8, 2010 by genotype

[MemphisMomma]

Pick your program wisely or make sure to pick a really understanding advisor. I am on the last leg of a degree in biomedical sciences. I currently have a toddler. I am expected to be in lab 40-50 hours a week now but I basically am writing. Anyway, after the baby I shifted my day to come in an hour later. Our campus also has an on-site daycare. My boss is really flexible as I have certain goals to meet in a week but I can break up my time however I want. That means returning to lab some evenings and leaving the baby with his father while I finish an experiment. I think if you choose an advisor with a family or refrain from picking a really competitive lab you can survive. I have had to rely on friends to watch my son until 7 or so in the evening because its after daycare hours. So go for the top notch lab if you have the support system in place