hi guys, today i got asked the dreadful question. why would you like to do a phd? i must have said something like...coz am interested in working for an NGO in the longterm, i would like to teach and go into research and i don't get any fulfillment from working in the field. what have you guys been saying at interviews? if only to improve my clumsy answer. thanks.

Your answer sounds fine to me sweetchic. My answer to that one was "Personally, I want a challenge and professionally, I want to follow a career in research".

There's nothing wrong with your answer, as long as that's the truth of course. I don't think there can be rights or wrongs when it comes to why you want to do a PhD. Good luck with your application.

I agree with the others - your answer sounds fine. As long as you sound keen, enthusiastic and sincere that's a good enough reason. I just said I wanted to do research and think you need a PhD to get ahead.

thanks guys. it's consoling to know that i wasn't such a mess :).