PhD hustle: Latina/o STEM PhDs making their doctoral experiences work into their career pathways

Purpose Prior literature on Latina/o doctoral students has explored the experiences of Latina/o students pursuing a PhD; however, less is known about how these experiences influence their career pathways. This study aims to answer the research question: How do the doctoral experiences of Latina/o STEM PhDs influence their career pathways? Design/methodology/approach This study was a follow-up to the Council of Graduate Schools (CGS) PhD Career Pathways project, in which 75 US doctoral institutions fielded surveys to their doctoral students and alumni. Eight PhDs who self-identified as Hispanic or Latina/o on the CGS Career Pathway Survey participated in this qualitative research. Drawing on the PhD socialization theory and community cultural wealth, a thematic analysis approach was used in this study. Findings The findings from this study reflect the resilience and adaptability of Latina/o STEM PhDs, emphasizing the importance of community support, balancing familial responsibilities, and navigating a competitive academic landscape. Five themes highlighting the doctoral experiences and career pathways of Latina/o STEM PhDs are: survival of the fittest, PhD hazing, the hustle for future career, prioritizing family and work-life balance, and supportive community. Originality/value This study contributes to the research on Latina/o STEM PhD career pathways by examining how doctoral socialization processes and community cultural wealth shape participants’ career decision-making across academic and nonacademic sectors. By integrating doctoral socialization theory with community cultural wealth, this study offers a nuanced understanding of how institutional environments and supportive networks influence career outcomes for Latina/o STEM scholars.