My Journey- A year ago, I started a journey that many may not consider conventional – a fully online Doctor of Education (EdD) program. This decision was not just about convenience; it was a thoughtful choice driven by financial realities, my deep-rooted love for Lebanon, and my desire to stay close to my family, fiancé, and professional commitments. Pursuing a traditional PhD would have required me to relocate, something I was not ready to do. Yet, through this online EdD, I found an equally rigorous and fulfilling academic experience, one that challenges me every day while allowing me to remain connected to the life I cherish. A lesson learned from this is that there is no single “right” path to achieving your dreams, you just have to create your own path.
The 2 AM Commitment- While “online” often implies flexibility, my journey is anything but easy. Every week, I attend live classes at 2 AM, a time when most are asleep, but for me, it is a sacred space of learning and growth. These late-night (or early-morning) sessions remind me of my commitment to education, and what keeps me going is the recognition and support from faculty and my cohort. Even on the coldest winter nights, the sense of community, the engaging discussions, and the motivation I receive from my professors and peers make every sleepless night worth it.
Global Community- One of the most beautiful surprises in this journey has been the deep bond within my cohort. Despite being miles apart, we are incredibly connected. We organize meetups, writing groups, and casual chats to support each other through the highs and lows of this doctoral experience. This sense of belonging has been a driving force, transforming what could have been a lonely academic pursuit into a shared experience of collaboration and encouragement.
More importantly, this journey has reaffirmed a powerful truth: it takes a community to make a researcher. From my cohort to the edubridges PhD Circle, the connections I have built remind me that academia is not just about individual perseverance but about shared knowledge, support, and lifting each other up. This is a lesson I carry forward, not just in my doctoral studies but in how I hope to mentor and collaborate in the furture.
Lessons Learned- Reflecting on this first year, I recognize that earning a doctorate, whether online or in person, is not just about academic endurance. It is about:
✔ Building a strong support system: Whether through a cohort, mentors, or academic communities like the edubridges PhD Circle, surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals makes the journey more meaningful.
✔ Embracing flexibility while staying committed: The online format allows for balance, but dedication remains key. The real challenge is not in the format but in the persistence.
✔ Seeking opportunities beyond the virtual classroom: Although this program is online, where there is a will, there is a way. My academic journey is not confined to a screen. I look forward to traveling to conferences, publishing my research, and engaging in meaningful academic conversations that contribute to the field. This degree may be pursued virtually, but my commitment to engagement, collaboration, and impact knows no boundaries.
Looking Ahead- As I complete my first year, I reflect on what lies ahead. My ambition to become a faculty member fuels my dedication to this program. I envision myself one day contributing to the field of education, not just as a researcher but as a mentor and educator who inspires future scholars. The journey is long, but every paper I write, every discussion I engage in, and every 2 AM class I attend is a step closer to that goal.
A year down, and the road ahead is still long, but I walk it with purpose, passion, and an unshakable commitment to education.
This blog was published on edubridges on March 5, 2025
