M-
It's odd that we're in our late 20's and only now considering all of this, so different from the 18-year olds who have few responsibilities and can backpack through Europe, etc. But I think we both want to do everything we missed out on, regardless of whether it's the typical time to do these things.
Wow, you sound like me a couple years ago! Fortunately you have plenty of time to figure this all out. Just remember, Google is your friend .
My first step was finding schools that had good programs in Forensic Science and Psychology (my two majors). Try this site to see how the universities rank for doctoral programs since that is what you are interested in.
Once you have narrowed down the top few schools you'd like to consider, think about the part of the country (or world) that you'd like to live in. My determining factor was the winter weather that I'd have to deal with at least while going to school there for a few years, and possibly a place I'd like to live permanently. For me, I wanted very mild winters (ex. the high today is 75, and I LOVE that!). You don't want humid summers.. so work around that. I also didn't like the idea of a small town or small college. So for us, after considering several factors it was either a Florida school or a California School. Anyway, here is a good site where you can easily find the demographics for certain cities and compare a prospective city with your current city.
Then after that, well, you contact the school and ask for info. They'll tell you what specifics they require for your admission. I have no clue what getting a PhD involves since I am still working on my Bachelor's, so I haven't investigated it properly.
I must say, I am so excited for you! I love to see people my age that were trapped in a cult like me, getting on with their lives and not letting their past hold them back.
Good luck to you both, and if I can help at all, let me know.
Oh, one thing, regarding this:
I'd love to hear, too, from people who've taken risks after leaving and who (hopefully!) have been glad they did.
I moved cross-country, leaving behind all family ('cept Jon of course), friends, and a stable job to pursue my dreams (it helps to have a really supportive husband like we have). It was the scariest thing to date that I have ever done. Am I glad I did it? I am very, very, very glad I did. No regrets!
