As an insatiable learner, and a leader that wants to model what I preach. I have decided that it is time to go back to school and get my Ed.D. Yes, I do want to be called Dr. Phil!
My wife will be happy with this decision as it keeps my feet firmly planted on the ground. We were recently driving by a local airport when I looked at her and said "I think I want to learn how to fly and get my pilot's license." To her credit she didn't just respond with a "Hell No!" She actually told me that maybe it was time to go back to school.
There are two colleges in my area (William and Mary & VCU) that have this program and the decision may come down to cost. I'm sure both programs will be excellent, I just happen to know and respect more people with a Doctorate from Williams and Mary. I attended Worcester State College for my undergraduate degree, a fine school, but not an upper echelon school. I was fortunate enough to earn my Masters Degree from UVA. Now, I would love to tack William and Mary onto my resume. However, is a name alone a reason to pick a school? At 40K, the program is by far the more expensive choice, but the school I would most like to attend. VCU is the other local college that I could attend to receive my doctorate. The cost of the program is a much more acceptable 17K. Still expensive, but a little easier to digest.
On Tuesday I am visiting with the folks at VCU to get an idea of the program. Between finances and family I can't believe I am even considering this. Why then now? If I can't show that I am willing to grow and learn during an inconvenient time in my life, then how can I convince others to do the same?
... That and I can't let my brother Mike be the only doctor in the family!
You are a brave man Phil! I was going to tackle my EdD as I began working on my Superintendent Licensure, but I became weak and thought it was too much to tackle right now, heck I am even wondering if my certification only program is too much to tackle right now. Since I have struggled (and even failed) to keep up with the #Blogathon challenge I am guessing I made the right choice this time, but I truly admire those that are ready to take it on. From what I have learned about you here on your blog and on Twitter, I think you are ready and will do fantastic. I also have a brother, he happens to be a Medical Doctor, and I will someday need need to get my Doctorate just so he isn't the only one in the Family. Good Luck!!!
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