u/throwback-269

My long-term goal has always been to pursue a PhD, and I have an opportunity to join a PhD program at one of the top IITs. At the same time, I've interviewed with an R&D startup, and if I get an offer, I'll have to choose between the two.

I don't mind hard work or constructive criticism, but I do value good mentorship and an environment where I can openly discuss research problems.

Has anyone here faced a similar choice? Would you go for the PhD directly or gain R&D experience first and pursue a PhD later?

My long-term goal has always been to pursue a PhD, and I have an opportunity to join a PhD program at one of the top IITs. At the same time, I've interviewed with an R&D startup, and if I get an offer, I'll have to choose between the two.

The main issue is that a former PhD student of my prospective supervisor shared a not so good experience regarding the mentorship and work environment. I know that's only one perspective, so I'm trying not to judge solely based on it.

I don't mind hard work or constructive criticism, but I do value good mentorship and an environment where I can openly discuss research problems.

Has anyone here faced a similar choice? Would you go for the PhD directly or gain R&D experience first and pursue a PhD later?

My long-term goal has always been to pursue a PhD, and I have an opportunity to join a PhD program at one of the top IITs. At the same time, I've interviewed with an R&D startup, and if I get an offer, I'll have to choose between the two.

The main issue is that a former PhD student of my prospective supervisor shared a not so good experience regarding the mentorship and work environment. I know that's only one perspective, so I'm trying not to judge solely based on it.

I don't mind hard work or constructive criticism, but I do value good mentorship and an environment where I can openly discuss research problems.

Has anyone here faced a similar choice? Would you go for the PhD directly or gain R&D experience first and pursue a PhD later?