The PhD Journey in Pakistan… A Road Few Understand

Doing a PhD anywhere in the world is demanding but in Pakistan, it becomes a test of patience, resilience, and sheer willpower. Between navigating university procedures, meeting strict HEC requirements, and dealing with delays that seem never-ending, a scholar quickly learns that research is only one part of the struggle.

The real challenge lies in the system: approvals that take months, paperwork that moves at its own pace, and processes like PCD evaluations that can stretch far longer than expected. Every milestone synopsis approval, research progress seminar, external review feels like a mountain. And yet, every time you push through, you learn something new: discipline, consistency, and the courage to continue even when the journey feels stuck.

A PhD in Pakistan is not just an academic degree. It’s a story of perseverance. It’s the silent strength of countless scholars who keep moving despite hurdles. And when that final approval comes, it speaks louder than any award it says you didn’t just earn a title, you conquered a system.

When I Finally Chose Myself! My Shift to Digital Marketing

After years of working in concept development, I realized something uncomfortable I had given everything to the industry, but the industry had given very little back. Endless revisions, last-minute changes, unrealistic expectations, and almost no appreciation from decision-makers. Clients changed directions overnight, authorities overlooked effort, and the cycle of “just one more change” never seemed to end.

For a long time, I kept pushing through it. I told myself this is how the field works, this is how you grow. But in reality, I was shrinking inside. Creativity felt heavy. Deadlines felt personal. And the appreciation I kept waiting for… never came.

One day, I decided to stop waiting.

I decided to choose myself.

Instead of drowning in never-ending revisions, I turned toward something that gave me control — Digital Marketing. A field where learning is constant, skills are measurable, and growth depends on my effort, not someone’s mood. It wasn’t easy. I didn’t know where to start. But I worked hard, stayed consistent, and learned everything I could analytics, strategy, content, SEO, ads, funnels, Power BI dashboards, and the science behind digital success

For the first time, I felt valued not because someone said “good job,” but because my results spoke louder than approval.

Most importantly, I learned to say No.
No to unnecessary stress.
No to broken boundaries.
No to working without respect..

Today, stepping into digital marketing isn’t just a career move it’s a decision to evolve, protect my peace, and grow on my terms. And I’m proud of the person I’m becoming.