Hi everyone

I'm at the end (albeit extended...) of a scientific 4 year PhD program. After 2 years I knew I hated it, and didn't want a career in the field. I had actually found enjoyment in art, and have published work/interviews/commissions. I kept the PhD going to 1) pay back my supervisor's efforts in obtaining funding, 2) maintain an income, 3) prove to myself I could achieve it.

I have no publications and earlier this year fell into anxiety/depression because of the work. I was allowed 2 months extension. 1 month in, I'm still correcting 3 results chapters and haven't started 3 other chapters, with only 3.5 weeks to go.

My supervisor suggested 4 months further extension (and a little pushy about it). I have no source of income. I'm in debt and can't afford to keep going without a job. Also emotionally every hour wears on you, particularly the PhD has low value for future career plans.

It's a difficult decision. I've seen many posts encouraging people at the end... but I feel deep down I'd cycle into a state of further debt and depression doing this. I have a distinction at Masters level, so not worried about fallback qualifications. My supervisor is the busy/absent/non-lab type, but a nice guy overall. However, his input to my project setup has been quite poor, and he's previously led me to do experiments that were very useless for the write-up.

My predicament is do I try wing it, apply for the extension to satisfy his goals at the detriment to myself? Or do I quit, face instant relief, potentially burn a bridge, but be true to myself and prioritise a career in something I love?

Any comments are really appreciated, could do with some perspective if anyone's experienced similar?

You need an income so look for a job, any job. And you might not like it but get that extension and finish writing up. It may be of benefit later in your life to have a phd no matter how much you hate the process rn.

dont quit when you are already near the finishing line. you are already in pain, so get a reward from it. yes the financial aspect might take a burden but there are ways to earn some income (teaching, private tutor?)..

I agree with the others - I feel you've come too far to quit now. It's only a few more months and then you're free of it.

+ you may consider "outer" assistance, search for professionals ready to help with your research.

Thanks everyone for your help. I shared the same concerns with some of my friends and they all said the same thing - that by putting in this last push of effort I'd be doing myself a huge favor in the long term. I also voiced my concerns with the supervisor who's been massively supportive and agreed to put in extra reading support if I need it.

So I'm gonna give it my best and complete it, thanks again everyone.

Jonny

Good news Jonnyk9 - hopefully it will all be done in no time at all