working on PhD

I earned my PhD 8 years ago ... and quit my job for a few years to be a full time student again and LOVED it. As a single woman, it was quite difficult financially, but worth every penny. I learned so much that helps me better understand the world, science, philosophy, nursing, etc. that I wish everyone could have the same positive experience and get the benefit of that great education.

If you are that miserable in your program ... perhaps you have chosen the wrong program ... or perhaps you should cut back on the number of classes you take at a time ... or bite the financial bullet, take out a student loan, and cut back your employment. It's a shame to take such wonderful educational opportunity and not get the full benefit from it.

I hope you find a way to make it work for you. Good luck,

llg

I'm in a "dissertation only" program at the University of South Africa (DLitt et Phil):) . I'm researching something I love, and my advisor has been great. I considered programs in the US, but just couldn't afford them and didn't think I could jump the hoops. But it has been an awful lot of work. Hang in there!!!

Please tell us more about your program.

wow, llg. your post just inspired me to possibly reconsider a doctoral program (someday). first have to finish my msn, and get my act together in other aspects of my life. it sounds like you had a real positive experience.

yeah, it was great. i was 36 when i started. quit my job and took a 5-year "vacation" from the 9 to 5 grind. lived in jeans and courderoys, slept in late in the mornings, stayed up late at night doing my schoolwork. worked 15-20 hours per week in the schools computer lab running statistics and helping others to do the same. eating lunch and dinner with fellow students most of the time. great discussions with them about life and nursing. learning new things every week.

the life of a full time graduate student suited me extremely well. it was my fantasy lifestyle. i really hated graduating and having to come back to the mainstream workforce.

llg