Why I earned a professional doctorate, not a Ph.D.
Angedith Poggi 
In this post, I share the main reasons that motivated me to pursue and earn a professional doctorate, instead of a research-intensive doctoral program
Why a distance-based doctoral program?
In September 2020, I graduated with a Doctor of Health Science in Global Health and Education from Nova Southeastern University. Distance-based doctoral programs allow professional adults to pursue higher education while advancing their careers. As a survey statistician in a federal agency, I was interested in pursuing a career in a public health agency to conduct research or be a member of the senior leadership team that impacts people’s lives. Also, I was interested in understanding theories of learning and their effective implementation in different learning environments.
Importance of First-Generation Latinx Students Pursuing Higher Education
As a first-generation Afro-Latina student, the goal to earn a doctoral degree increased after attending the Exito! Leadership Institute in San Antonio, Texas, in 2014. The leadership institute presented a safe environment for minority students to understand the challenges associated with pursuing a doctoral degree. One of the major challenges for Hispanic students is building a strong connection with faculty staff. Therefore, my main goal was to become a qualified Latina professional who can inspire younger generations to earn doctoral academic and professional degrees.
Recommendations
My #1 recommendation I give my clients who are considering a terminal degree is to understand their professional goals. In my case, I already had a stable professional career.
Completing a doctoral degree was a personal goal.
I did not need a Ph.D. to publish my research articles, present at conferences, and learn research or statistical methods. I earned those skills through my master's program, workshops, fellowships, and professional experience.
Need help finding the right doctoral program?
If you need help finding the right doctoral program, do not hesitate to contact me. I offer 1:1 sessions to help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
Book a 1:1 session here: A Call with Angie (angedithpoggi.com)
3, 5, 7, 10 1:1 sessions here: Sesiones-con-Angie (angedithpoggi.com)
Categories: : educador, english, estudiantes