One of the hardest decisions about getting a PHD is knowing whether grad school is right for you and your future career goals. For many students, applying and navigating graduate school is a new and uncertain process that requires mentorship and the right information. This session is an introductory panel that provides students with basic information on whether a PHD programs is right for them. Broadly, we explain: the focus of sociology PHD programs, the emphasis on creating published research, how funding works, the academic job landscape and much more. We also address issues unique to first generation college graduates.