Is doing a PhD a lonely process ?

Question

I just started a PhD program.
I am new to the whole world of research. I feel as though everyone else has already found out their research topic, while I am still struggling to figure out mine.

All my friends plan to stop at a masters level, I feel left out .

When does this become better ? Am I in for a long lonely process or will this improve in time ?

some details, I am fresh out of undergrad and have no immediate work exprience to speak off.

Answer 1

I think if you find what you want to research the loneliness will go away. Also remember that very few people in the U.S. or even in the world get a PhD- worldwide i would say less than 1%- So you will be different than most- But i think it will improve with time because soon you will find colleagues that are also getting their PhD and you will have students who will be interested in what you are researching- Usually that is where the most interaction comes from - is the students ... Just make sure you don't lock yourself up in your room when you are writing your thesis- i know sometimes people have to but then the world passes them by... equal amount of social time is good.

Answer 2

Is the PhD program you enrolled in something that you are REALLY interested in?

If you pursue what you love, then it will not feel like you are doing work at all - the pressure and hard work will seem less.
If you love what you do, then I say go for it; if not, then i suggest you pursue what's really in your heart . It's very important to invest our time, effort - ourselves in things that we are passionate about. If we do, things get easier, better and happier.

I think it's great that you are already in your PhD. More power!

Answer 3

well i sympathize with you as i am at the similar stage. what happens in the initial days of ph d is that as you search for your topic you have to really convince yourself about it as you carry your ph d all your life, second it really needs lot of conviction as well as commitment to complete ph d, especially when you see that your peers of some time are earning now!i feel that conviction is really important, so ask yourself twice before you carry on! research is interesting apply your mind and you will see a fine output!
all the best!