Really really think about this.

I believe it is easier to regret something you did ... than something you didn't do. So the dilemma is - which do you think would be easier to regret: not doing your PhD (when you look back 3 years after quitting) or having to catch up on the career ladder (if you do the PhD)? I have 7 years of work experience in my field and doing a PhD in a different field and the fact is - progress in a career has nothing to do with higher degrees. The right opportunities, the right skill set and a dash of good luck - you may end up at the top at a faster pace than other people.

By the way, which of the crystal balls told you where you would end up working?

Ask if there is the chance of doing more work; or experiments or whatever. You can extend your programme for up to 2 years to get a PhD.

Your supervisor should be able to tell you what the key issue is.

Hello Jun480,

I don't think you should beat yourself up becuase of the way things are going for you. Indeed look at it as a plus. You are getting to attend conferences, and learn other subjects while you do your PhD. Along the same lines, you should talk to your supervisor to see if you could reduce the amount of time you work in this role to enable you focus some time on your own work.

The truth is the PhD is an independent work, and your Director may assume you have everything worked out. I am a full time student but also work 16 hours per week for an independent organisation. Furthermore, I demonstrate in undergraduate classes and participate in the school programmes. But I am also able to carry out my research and just concluded my first year. I haven't attended any conferences or seminars yet as I can't really afford them. So in one way, you are lucky.

Don;t get overwhelmed with anything - take a day out and try to break your thesis topic into key ideas. Make a plan and then at the first start, spend min. 3 hours per day researching those ideas, even if you need to work at night. You will soon see yourself into research within 4 weeks.

Good luck.