I hear that a lot. It kind of made me certain that I don't want to go for a PhD. I also frequently hear that it was a great time and that people should do it (

I hear that a lot. It kind of made me certain that I don't want to go for a PhD. I also frequently hear that it was a great time and that people should do it (very shortly summed up) "if they love science". But to be honest, there is a lot of people who are researchers and scientists without ever getting any kind of degree. Okay, not a lot as in the majority, but enough to be aware that it is valid to write papers, etc. and be accepted in research communities. I am not saying it is easy and it probably is way, way more unlikely, but then this sounds a lot like "if you really love science". I also agree that the utility part will probably be harder, so it may depend a lot on what you study. Those are all my assumptions, based on the things I heard. They are not really statements. I really want to hear what others think about that and especially where I am awfully wrong.