This essay reflects the author's understanding of the doctoral experience, including the candidacy or qualifying exam, the role of the advisor, and the dissertation defense. In theory this process is the same for all students, but in practice the process may vary from department to department and university to university. She also includes a few cardinal rules of conduct to consider along the way, shares critical reflections on the importance of feminist coalition-building within the academy, and outlines constructive strategies of self-empowerment. (Contains 11 endnotes.)