Taking the plunge: Reflections on the decision to register for a doctorate

This article examines the considerations that I (first author [JB]), as a working mother, employed as a manager in Higher Education, faced prior to enroling in part-time doctoral study. An autoethnographical, reflective practice approach is adopted to examine the issues that were central to my deliberations. I draw on a narrative written after my first Ph.D. meeting and entries made prior to enrolment in a reflective journal. Recommendations are made for prospective students to consider prior to deciding to embark upon doctoral study.