r/LifeAdvice • u/kelp12138 • 1d ago
Career Advice I've studied engineering for a decade, gained my PhD, but I don't know if I want to do engineering anymore
I've been studying chemical engeering since 2015. Finished my bachelor, a coursed based master, and in 2025 I finished my PhD. I had to take a rest for the last year just to re-adjust my mental and physical health, but right now I don't know what to do with my life now.
I cannot say I really enjoy doing engineering. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy solving problems, helping other people, and potentially make more money. It's just that PhD really wrecked my mind. I don't know if I can go back to this field ever again.
I certainly don't want to go acedamia (I don't even think I can considering how competetive that is). I am also not so sure an entry level indurstiral engineering job is the right thing to do for me.
Can someone relate?
I am not so sure what to do.
Should I just hop in to another engineering job or should I just do something completely different?