As a professional woman who holds a PhD, my aim is to support and inspire other Black women intent on following their own doctoral journeys in the field of Information Systems.
By increasing the representation of Black women with STEM doctoral degrees, further, break down barriers and serve as role models and mentors for many more.
As an Assistant Professor of Information Systems, my research has reaffirmed my belief that a PhD in this domain advances your individual career goals and will also position you as an influential figure in your field.
As an academic, you are the face that younger individuals in the classroom may unconsciously seek. When you are seen, they are seen.
According to the National Centre for Education Statistics, only 9.2% of doctoral degrees earned in 2019 were awarded to Black individuals. Of these, 11% were earned by Black women, ahead of Black men comprising approximately 7.1%. These statistics highlight the need to actively encourage and support Black women over 40 interested in pursuing a PhD in Information Systems. There is much-needed room at the table.
I invite you to reach out to me through the provided contact form so that we may facilitate your journey in various ways, including:
- Funding opportunities
- Balancing work and PhD studies
- Assisting with the application process
- Preparing for interviews
- Identifying research areas of interest
- Choosing a concentration within Information Systems
- Addressing questions and concerns
- Any combination of the above
- Other areas you may require assistance with
Briefly, What Is a PhD in Information Systems?
Information systems is an interdisciplinary field that merges aspects of mathematics, business, and computer science. Pursuing Information Systems PhD program involves a research-intensive focus on multidisciplinary areas. The program provides expertise in several domains, including:
- Cyber security
- Data Analytics
- Artificial intelligence
By pursuing a doctorate in Information Systems (IS), you could concentrate on traditional areas or explore newer fields of interest. Although pursuing a doctoral degree can be challenging, Information Systems, as a STEM field, offers versatility and numerous avenues for specialization and continuous growth.
Benefits of a PhD in Information Systems
Gain Transferable Skills: Acquiring a Ph.D. demonstrates your ability to research, interpret, and organize data effectively while also honing your communication skills through regular writing and presenting. These skills are transferable across various industries, as effective communication is consistently ranked as professional skills.
Expand your network: While pursuing your PhD, you will collaborate with fellow PhD students, professors, and industry experts. Additionally, participating in academic conferences allows you to connect with potential collaborators who share similar research interests. The academic community is relatively small, and the connections you establish during your doctoral journey can enhance your career aspects and open doors to meaningful friendships.
Challenges of a PhD in Information Systems
As in most things with great benefits, challenges also exist. Some challenges you’ll encounter include: –
- Being in the minority: You might be the only woman, older woman, or Black woman in your program. However, these circumstances should not deter you. You have overcome challenges throughout your career, and pursuing a PhD should be no different. Like other challenges, it requires resilience and determination.
- Financial considerations: Relying on PhD funding, which typically ranges from $28,000 – $40,000 per year, can be humbling. However, the expectation of a higher earning potential after completing the program should sustain you.
- Building Confidence: As a 40+ woman, you have already accomplished a great deal. It is natural to sometimes struggle with confidence while pursuing a PhD. However, I encourage you to actively engage in tasks and activities that build and enhance your confidence daily. Consider documenting your journey through video recordings, writing a book, mentoring others who aspire to follow in your footsteps, or excelling in your classes. By acknowledging and celebrating your achievements, big and small, you will strengthen your self-assurance and resilience.
In today’s landscape, there is no better time for you as a Black woman over 40 to pursue a PhD in Information Systems. Society increasingly recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in academia and industry. Your unique perspective and experiences will contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the breaking of barriers in the field. By pursuing a PhD, you will not only empower yourself but also inspire future generations of Black women to excel in Information Systems and beyond.
Please use the contact form and let us know how we can help facilitate your journey. Together, we can create a community of empowered Black women who excel in Information Systems PhD programs, making a lasting impact on academia, industry, and society as a whole.
