Wow…That’s an interesting/great/fascinating way to look at it.
Just…amazing.

This reads like the story of my life. And I’m completing a master’s degree, not even a doctorate. So my hat’s off to you. :-)

I agree with Fyora. It’s an interesting comparison to the indentured servitude that people entered into to make it to America, the land of promise.
My theory has always been to invest the time up front to increase odds of steady employment later. Sure, life is a bit more demanding now with less freedom, but it’s highly unlikely I’ll ever be out of a job…unless I do something stupid, of course. Good luck on the doctorate!

LoA