I love this description about getting a doctorate.

Thought for the week: Carol Roberts has a mountain on the cover of her book "The Dissertation Journey." Yes, your doctorate is like climbing a mountain.

Maybe not Everest, but it is challenging.

There are beautiful parts where you wade into topics you are passionate about, but this is not an easy hike around a lake.

A doctorate is demanding.

You can't jog up this mountain.

There are "highly technical" sections that have to rope up with your faculty mentors and fellow students to traverse.

There is a lot in your pack - loads of papers to write and books to read and research to plan and execute. And many, many long days and nights.

Once you're above the tree line there's no bail-out. No Uber. If the climb isn't consuming you, you're doing it wrong.

Many complain how difficult it is.

Well, yes. At one point in my master's program I naively made a point to my professor, who acidly replied, "Nobody cares what you think until you get a doctorate."

You are seeking a terminal credential that gives you the responsibility to teach and influence others. It's different from any other schooling you have done.

Bottom line: Don't waste time trying to figure out how to make this easier.

Accept that something this rewarding will be difficult.

Step up your academic game, plan smartly, link up with your climbing partners, put your pack on, take a swig from your canteen, and start putting one boot in front of the other.

The view from the summit is worth it.

Grace and peace,
Don (EdD, '2