Doctoral and professional programs

In this chapter on graduate and professional education, we explore Doctoral and professional programs, posing a number of key questions you should ask yourself. Where to apply to graduate school or a postdoc, and why? With whom should you work? A PhD or a PharmD, and to postdoc or not? What must you do to be successful? Moreover, we touch on traits important to becoming an independent researcher and ask whether success in graduate school or a postdoctoral fellowship requires different skills than undergraduate degrees. Critical thinking habits and skills underpin this discussion. We outline possible career choices, touching on the knowledge and expertise used by drug hunters, and also ask what might be of most value to potential employers. Each of us is different, and what's best for you is something you will have to decipher, but hopefully only after you consult with family, friends, and advisors or mentors. Regardless, “the big leap” is coming, so get ready.