I'm not sure if my experience is of interest to you. I'm studying for a doctorate in France, so the system is a little different to the US. I don't have any course work as such and only one seminar each week at which a student presents their research or an aspect of it and then it's discussed by the class and the professor. I think the most difficult thing for me is that I'm still only a student. Another big problem is that I'm very isolated - my topic is quite specialised, so there are very few other students around me doing the same research in a similar context. The most rewarding is that I have an opportunity to research my topic in great detail over a long period of time. That sort of opportunity is not often available in the working world. Most of us have some form of job at the same time - the lack of structured classes helps this, others are doing internships. I'm looking to become some form of museum curator and hope that having the higher level qualification will help me to reach this aim.
In France, the professional museum world is quite closed.
----- Original Message -----
From: [log in to unmask]>Merri Pemberton
To: [log in to unmask]>[log in to unmask]
Sent: Wednesday, May 01, 2002 7:07 PM
Subject: Who is getting a PH.D in art history or anything closely related?

Hi, I would like to speak to some of you future PH.D graduates about your thoughts on the doctorate programs. How are you dealing with such a demanding program? What are the things that a doctorate degree can offer to people with an interest in a career in art history/museum studies? What is the most difficult thing about being a doctorate student? What is the most rewarding? Is it possible to hold down a job and complete this program? What specific position do you want after you complete the program?

Sincerely,

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