Is it possible to do a PhD just "for fun"?

I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately. Two months into my program at the University of Alberta and I realise I haven’t been this happy since I spent a few months learning to surf on the beaches of Ecuador. 

Who would have known that a course in Economic History could be so enjoyable? If you asked me two months ago I would have laughed at the idea (sorry Frank).  

I’ve already been asked many times by people why I’m doing this... it’s going to take upwards of four years and, to be honest, I’m not sure if it will really advance my career. I have no idea where these studies will take me. But it is something that calls me. It’s important that I do this.

So… through deductive reasoning… it would lead one to believe that I’m doing this for fun. Doesn’t it?

And it IS fun! At this point anyways. I look forward to getting on the bus in the morning with the young, fresh faced students who are bringing their new ideas and energy into this world. I love wandering through the floors of the library and I always seem to find sections which I promise myself I’ll come back to and read once the semester is over. For some reason the coffee tastes better on campus and every week I am connected to more and more amazing people who are making meaningful contributions to their discipline. It’s such a great environment to grow.

Plus, I’m studying something which I hold so close to my heart - maybe that’s why it doesn’t feel like work. Sure, I have no doubt some point I might get frustrated. And maybe I’ll question my decision at some time in the future. But I’m pretty sure that it is all part of the process and that I’ll get through it.  

So (depending on who’s asking) I’m doing a PhD for fun.

And I’m loving it. 

-Raylene

#uanativestudies #indigenous #ualbertabiz