Advice on choosing a dissertation advisor

Responding to a question from Office Hours

Photo by Scott Graham on Unsplash

Today I’m answering this question from a dear reader from Office Hours.

So, I'm kinda stuck right now trying to pick my dissertation advisor. On one side, there's this big-shot in my field who's research relates well to mine. But I never really feel like the actually helps me with my writing struggles. It feels like writing's a breeze for him, so he doesn't really get it.

Then there's this other advisor option. Maybe not as much of a heavyweight in my exact field, but she seems more empathetic about the whole research and writing struggle and has tricks to work through them.

I'm torn. Do I go with the big-name expert who might open doors for me in my field but might not understand my struggles? Or do I choose someone who could give me more support with the writing process, even if they're not as established in my area? Is it risky to go with the more understanding advisor over the field expert?