Journey to the Ph.D.: How to Navigate the Process as African Americans
(The authors) offer students at every step of the process, advice, information and guidance for a successful stint in academia. (The book) is a helpful resource for any African-American student seriously considering the pursuit of a Ph.D., or for those currently in the midst of their doctoral program. The book also serves as a valuable asset to current faculty (of all races), as a means for continuing the critical dialogue surrounding the recruitment and retention of African American students in doctoral programs. The essays incorporate a variety of writing styles from informal and conversational to more technical and theoretical. There is also a strong premise throughout many of the composition of the importance of spirituality as a means for surviving. and thriving, on the road to the Ph.D.."The vast collection of personal experiences in the Journey to the Ph.D. should kindle a student's desire to continue their efforts obtain a prized terminal degree while maintaining a reality-based view of the experience. This collection of seventeen personal accounts provides a guide to the selection of an institution, instructions on how to navigate through that institution, and what to expect from the experience. Thus it affords direction to the novice as well as the experienced scholar. Students and advisors alike will connect with the clarity of the experiences shared within this text."As a graduate of a doctoral program at a predominately white institution, I applaud the authors and editors of this publication for bringing to light the joys and challenges faced by African-American women and men who struggle to find their place in the Academy.  The authors' comprehensive look at the process from matriculation to graduation is sure to fill the information gap for many who are moving toward or considering the journey toward a terminal degree.  My best lessons about survival came from colleagues in the field.  This publication is, in and of itself, a lesson in survival."The value of this book cannot be overstated. For those men and women of color considering pursuing an advanced degree, the book contains useful information that aids the reader in making an informed decision. For those already in doctoral programs, there is sound advice on how to successfully navigate through the university's waters."This book provides information that will help both the people who offer professional training and those who seek it to better understand the critical elements of a successful professional training experience. The contributors provide insights that merit our attention."Pursuing a degree is an awesome undertaking. This book provides all those involved in graduate education--students, faculty, staff and administrators-with a checklist for successful recruitment, retention and graduation of Black graduate students."This timely book reflects a myriad of voices whose experience as Ph.D. students capture the attention of all those who are serious about helping to change the academy. I highly recommend it to all who want to survive and/or make a difference in the academy!