[oldboyFX]

If you want to get out of academia, start learning how to actually build things. I mean sure, get your PhD. But in the meantime start programming, designing, and acquiring skills that can propel your career outside of academia.

I wouldn't recommend starting a business before you have any marketable skills.

It's never too late to switch fields. I know people who've done it in their 50's.

What would you like to do anyway?

[tmoot]

Good point. I'm lacking in the side projects area since I've dedicated most my effort to my phd which really just amounts to data analysis scripts.

I did take quite a bit of cs courses (almost close to a second major) as a undergrad but I'm years out of practice and I've forgotten most of the material.

I'm toying with a few ideas related to the cannabis marketplace.