Hi, I just started my PhD 2 months ago. On top of taking three courses (and having to do assignments) as well as do research for my PhD, I am also working as a behavior therapist. I feel like I am doing neither well because I am too busy and it doesnt seem to be going well so far. I am just wondering if any of you have been able to juggle this or would you advise that I quit being a therapist and just focus on doing the PhD? I am really passionate about both but I know that my focus should be on the PhD now.... just wondering if it is just my lack of ability to cope or if the workload is really too much.. Would appreciate any comments and advice!

Hi this is just my opinion. I think you need to decide which is more important to you and chose one so that you can give it your best. There is no point doing either in a inefficiently, and since you can't seem to cope with the two you may need to quit one.

Best wishes.

If you can afford to quit your job, do it. I did not work the first three years of my PhD training. The extra time allowed me to strive to do my best work. I am at the top of my class.

Which is more important to you? I would not continue on your current path or you're not going to be able to do justice to either.

Some people do work part-time during PhD out of financial necessity, however, I don't see how you can make time for both a full-time PhD and a full-time job. One or the other needs to be part-time to give yourself the best chance.

The time commitment required from me was extremely heavy, especially towards the end. I personally could not have continued in a full-time job (probably not even a part-time job) and done justice to my PhD.

Ian