ButchOfBlaviken
ButchOfBlaviken t1_j2qke7x wrote
Reply to comment by MaikRequim in [D] life advice to relatively late bloomer ML theory researcher. by notyourregularnerd
Agree, the diplom is being phased out. Didn't realise the master's is 2 years now. Do they not do a thesis anymore?
It's very disheartening that a 3 year PhD has become the norm. Unless you're a prodigy, you barely scratch the surface before having to write up and leave.
ButchOfBlaviken t1_j2qiasp wrote
Reply to comment by Ok_Reference_7489 in [D] life advice to relatively late bloomer ML theory researcher. by notyourregularnerd
Sorry, I don't think you know what you're talking about.
In Germany, it's quite common to start your PhD later and continue well into your 30s whilst starting a family etc. This is because a PhD is treated as a real job that pays reasonably well. Also because the education in Germany is quite substantial (5-6 years diplom, 3 years masters, 5-6 years PhD). In contrast to a country like UK, where you can start at 21 and be done by 24, I will always respect and rank a German PhD much much higher.
As a UK academic, having to supervise bratty kids with very little depth of knowledge has become the bane of my existence. I will always pick someone with a bit more experience if I can.
ButchOfBlaviken t1_j2r0ldh wrote
Reply to comment by notyourregularnerd in [D] life advice to relatively late bloomer ML theory researcher. by notyourregularnerd
So I think you've answered your own question. Starting a PhD at 27 in Germany is quite normal. If you're comparing yourself against UK/US graduates, all I can say is that people who make the hiring decisions definitely know and appreciate the extra experience that brings.