So I start my undergrad comp sci at WGU on Friday. I had a goal of getting a degree in cognitive science as well wanting to move into the space of AI. My previous undergrad pursuits in my 20s were in exercise physiology and kinesiology. I've been a coach in the MMA scene for about 15 years (active in the community in general for around 20 years). Saying all of this to provide context.

I've been living in a building with this neighbor I've never really talked to until a few months ago who, come to find out, has a PhD in cognitive science. I went from knowing no one with any degree in the field to having lived next to a professor in the field at a local university for the last 2 years unknowingly.

I talked to him about my reasons for why I'm doing what I'm doing and without giving too much away the topic I'm specifically interested in is "play". That's the gist of it but it's way more specific than that.

He's super interested in some of the concepts I'm wanting to develop and wants to follow my progress on my undergrad program through WGU.

I feel almost as though my life has been ordained to some degree lol. Like this is supposed to be happening. I feel honored for my opportunities and don't want to take anything for granted.

My whole goal throughout this program is to make every project I dive into relate to the previously mentioned subject (I'm going into this program with a few years of programming experience so I already have some ideas in mind).

What I'm interested in hearing about is have any of you who have finished at WGU gone straight into a PhD program? And even if not, anyone who has taken the traditional route, can you please give me some of your feedback and insight into your experiences and the process in general?

I love how active and supportive this community seems to be and I'm all ears as far as what y'all have to share.

Thanks in advance!

Edit: clarity on my wording