Thinking Out Loud – Getting a Doctorate Degree

This has been on my mind a lot. So, I want to invite the readers a journey into my head about the topic of a Doctorate degree.

Before I say anything, I want to make sure that this is clear:

If you do have a Doctorate degree, I applaud and congratulate you with the upmost esteem.

Now, aside from that, I have mixed feelings about getting a Doctorate degree. There are certainly pros and cons to it, but this kind of decision greatly impacts your life. It isn’t like deciding chocolate or vanilla ice cream at the candy shop… or even choosing what shirt to wear. This kind of decision to go back for another round of education can either open doors, or close them.

Pros:

  • Job opportunities (maybe)
  • Become more specialized in a field
  • Title

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • A lot of time dedicated to studying and writing papers
  • Possibly having to move to a different location

And there is certainly more with each category. I dunno. What is everyone else’s opinions?

As for me, I’m just thinking out loud.

Author: Bryan M. Waring

Bryan Waring is a graduate of USM's School of Music with a B.M. in Performance – Composition and is now attending Belmont University for a M.M. in Commercial Media – Composition & Arranging. During his time at USM, he studied violin with Dino Liva and composition with Dr. Daniel Sonenberg, as well as has premiered several pieces during the semiannual Composer's Ensemble concert series. In 2017, Bryan was a writer for the original musical theater work of "Molded By The Flow," directed by Paul Dresher and Rinde Eckert. Outside of school, Bryan has been involved with writing music for videogame developers at Portland's CI2 Lab, collaborating with the King Tide Party, and studying with Larry Groupé (Straw Dogs) in San Diego. Now living in Nashville. Along with composing, Bryan teaches music to children, receiving the Master Teacher Award for his work at ESF Camps; and does audio engineering for live ensembles. Besides talents in music, Bryan is a team-player in any competitive work environment; equipped with skills in leadership, organization, mathematics, creativity, communication, and managing. On the side, Bryan has worked as a model for several skilled artists in the New England area. Among his other accomplishments include obtaining the rank of Eagle Scout in April 2013 with a project of building a side parking area with guide rails for Webb Mountain Park in Monroe, CT.

One thought on “Thinking Out Loud – Getting a Doctorate Degree”

  1. While I do believe a doctoral degree is in your future, I would not recommend you getting right away. I think you should pursue your dream of composing for film. However, in the future, you should seriously consider sharing your love and passion for music composition with the next generation via teaching. There is no better, and rewarding, profession!

    Like

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