[ Contents | Search | Post | Reply | Next | Previous | Up ]
From: Ryan Pollard
Date: 22 Oct 2008
Time: 18:07:44 -0500
Remote Name: 128.138.64.212
I chose to pursue a doctorate in this field because I wanted to learn more about, treat, and educate others about stuttering and I felt this was the best way to translate that passion into a meaningful career. My words of advice to those considering a Ph.D. are these: make absolutely sure this is what you want to do before investing the time and money into it. A doc program can feel like a long crucible and your stamina will be tested along the way, so be sure you’re sufficiently motivated before you jump in. Also, doctoral studies offer you a great deal of freedom to pursue your own interests and work at your own pace, which can be both good and bad. If you’re not a self-motivated worker who can stay on track and be productive without definite deadlines and structure, then you had better develop that skill quickly! :) My current research interests involve studying speech motor preparation in individuals who stutter, specifically how the brains of IWS plan the movements necessary for speech production. I have heard of TMS and believe it has potential as a research tool, for instance in helping to better characterize neural pathways involved in stuttered and fluent speech.