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Do You Need a PhD When You’re Already a Doctor?

Having gone through it myself, today I'll explore the scenarios where going for a PhD is a good investment. Friday’s Digest #134

Table of contents

1. Life Update
2. Tools and Tips
3. Readers’ Favorite
4. Stuff

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Life Update

A week ago, Daylight Saving Time began in the US.

You know, when we move the clocks forward.

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For those of you outside the US, that's why you received the newsletter an hour earlier (the publishing time is always 7am EST—Eastern time).

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That reminded me that Daylight Saving Time will start soon in Israel too.

I LOVE Daylight Saving Time!

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Getting out of work while the sun is still shining is incredible.

Who cares if it's dark in the morning?

As someone who arrives to work in the dark most of the year, trust me—you get used to it quickly.

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I really hope they'll make Daylight Saving Time permanent and eliminate these clock changes altogether.

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Happy springtime! 🌸

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Tools and Tips

Do you need a PhD when you're already a doctor?

Most likely not.

You'll only NEED one if you're pursuing certain types of promotions.

If that's your situation, read what I wrote here.

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Today I'll focus on situations where you might WANT to pursue a PhD— not because you NEED it, but because you WANT it.

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If you're thinking about it, you're likely considering the significant time and effort it will require from you.

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So, to help you decide, let’s discuss 3 scenarios where you should go for it:

You're already doing the work, you're bored, or an exceptional opportunity presents itself.

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🔵 You're Already Doing the Work

This one is straightforward:

You might already be doing work that could earn you a PhD.

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Perhaps you're collaborating with scientists in their lab.

Maybe you've developed unique expertise through years of experience.

Or you've noticed something intriguing in your clinical work that hasn't been researched yet.

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The common thread? You're ALREADY DOING the work.

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Getting the PhD makes it official and establishes you as an authority in the field.

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If this describes you— go for it!

It's a no-brainer.

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🔵 You're Bored

It happens.

Your work has become routine, and you've lost your excitement.

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If you have an interesting research topic in mind and a lab willing to accept you, pursuing a PhD could be worthwhile.

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The key?

Aim to complete it within 4-6 years. Any longer, you risk burning out before graduation.

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So make sure you have enough time to commit.

Most doctors need 2-3 full workdays or 3-5 half days for PhD work.

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You'll also need sufficient income to handle reduced clinical hours.

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🔵 An Offer You Can't Refuse

Life can surprise you.

When you think you've found your path, an extraordinary opportunity appears.

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An offer too good to pass up.

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Usually, it comes from a prestigious institution, a renowned doctor or scientist, or both.

It often means leaving your current position and relocating to a different city, state, or country.

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You know it could transform your career, but it means stepping outside your comfort zone.

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My advice?

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Take it!

It's an opportunity that may never come back.

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Readers’ Favorite

How do you feel when you fail?

You probably don't see it as a positive thing.

But it is.

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Read my failure story here.

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Stuff

🔋 Gear I use - Car Battery Jump Starter​

I can't believe I waited so long to get one of these!

It's simple—when your car battery dies, you no longer need to wait for help. Connect this portable battery to your car's battery and you're back on the road.

A huge thanks to my best friend who never gave up and continued to recommend I get one 🍻.

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Epilogue

If you received this newsletter from a friend and would like to join Friday's Digest, visit https://newsletter.shaysharon.com​

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That’s it for this issue.

See you next week!

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Shay

Want to learn more from me?

Tip Sheets:

• My Workflow for Reading & Writing Manuscripts
• Future Fellows & Postdocs
• The PhD Journey
• How To Write an Abstract in 10 Minutes
• How to Study for the TOEFL

Video Guides:

• Manage References with a SINGLE CLICK
• My Workflow for Reading & Writing Manuscripts
• How to Write an Abstract in 10 Minutes​
• Make PubMed Work For You
• How I Use Anki Flashcards
• How I Studied for the USMLE
• How I Studied for the TOEFL
• What's in My Bag​
• Clinical Photography - The Complete Guide
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7-Day Email Courses:

• Your Guide to Fellowship
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• The Scientist's Handbook
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