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Chris Cappannelli is a federal special agent who received his EDD in Leadership and Management from St. Thomas University in 2018. He has a long and successful career with the government holding diverse positions of increasing complexity and sensitivity, including the Department of Justice, the Department of Treasury, US Customs and Homeland Security Investigations. To date, he has handled over 100 criminal cases, including narcotics enforcement, financial crimes, terrorism, and human rights and war crimes.

Dr. Cappannelli has presented at numerous agency conferences and symposiums and has briefed agency executives at the highest levels. Presently he serves as founder and principal of PGE consulting, LLC, which has engaged in security consulting, education investigations analysis in commentary to public, private, and media concerns. 

Today’s episode helps people answer the question: Should I pursue a doctoral degree?

This is no small decision; we beg you to take time to ensure you will not be a statistic (an estimated 50% of those who start don’t finish). 

The first question to answer:  Will the degree truly be value-added? Do you need the skills you would learn during the program? Or, maybe not?

Consider three main areas:

1.     Physical

• Have you had a recent physical? 
•  Do you have a regular exercise routine?  
•  Do you have healthy eating habits and a way to maintain them?

2.     Psychosocial 

• This will impact your relationships because of the huge weekly time investment over a long period of time (4-7+ years)
• Do you have 15-30 hours a week to devote to study? 
• Does your social network and employer support this? 
• Are you willing to miss events like weddings, birthdays, vacations, for a number of years?
• Are you resilient?  
• Are you even-keeled (not overly emotional)
•  How do you take feedback (be sure to check out  episode #18 linked below)

3.     Financial 

• Can you afford it? 
• How much in debt are you willing to go, understanding you may not finish?
• Will you be able to pay off the debt?

S.W.O.T.  Analysis - Assess your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats

1. Get out a big poster board and divide it into 4 squares, one for each letter: SWOT

2. Include input from those who know and love you 

3. Take time to fill it in BEFORE you apply anywhere

Check out these episodes:

• #18 How to Feel Good About Feedback with Dr. Kelly Olson: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1547113/8063165
• # 17 The Good Goodbye: How to End Your Doctoral Journey with Grace and Ease with Dr. Gladys Ato:

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