Not sure about student loan repayments but generally studentships range from £13,000K with no N.I. contributions (think you can opt to pay these yourself if you like) and it's tax free.

There are two types of JSA and if you want more advice the benefits agency should be able to advise. Why not give them a ring? I think you do have to have X amount of years N.I. contributions to get a state pension. It is a lot of years but I'm not sure how many - 30 or more I think. The Tax office will be able to advise. Why not give them a ring?

Employability is a risk and a lot will depend on the situation once you complete and things change with time and so it's really a chance you'd be taking.

Best of luck whatever you decide.

======= Date Modified 25 Jun 2009 12:20:27 =======
Thanks for the advice everyone!

Thanks Poppy. Just to clarify, so you only cite the author/s of the papers you have actually read and not the authors they make reference to in their paper. I ask because I got slightly lost in your response but it's my fault because I'm not feeling well today and need things explained in A, B, C style!

======= Date Modified 24 39 2009 09:39:53 =======
I think I'm thinking too hard and have managed to confuse myself! This may be a silly question but when reading articles with a view to writing and the author of the article cites the work of others, directly and indirectly, who should get credit in your work? The author of the article or those he / she has cited?

I feel a bit like when you write an easy everyday word that you've used for years but suddenly it just doesn't look right or seem to make sense.

Please take care. They do appear to be placing you under some stress and given your circumstances I feel this is unfair. Try not to get stressed about this, very difficult I know, as it could complicate your pregnancy further.

Tread carefully and seek advice from the students union and student welfare as they would be the best people to guide you.

Hope things improve for you.

I can't advise you as to whether you should quit or not but what I would say is everyone needs to find a reason to do a PhD and a reason to continue doing a PhD during the difficult and trying times. For example, some people don't like their PhD but continue because they see it as a stepping stone to getting the career they want. Would you like a career in research or academia? If so, keeping thinking of this end goal. If not, question why you are doing the PhD and where you think it will take you. I'm doing a PhD because I couldn't secure a good job and am not in a position to move for one. I get much more income from doing a PhD than I would if I was unemployed and it gives me something to do. For many these would not be good reasons and I can see why but it works for me and I'm much happier than I was before starting the PhD.

Just take some time to consider the pros and cons and make decisions from there but do take time as it is an important decision.

I think it would depend on the topic in that would you need the University facilities in order to do the research? I would think it would also depend on your supervisor in that would he / she require you to attend the University on a regular basis?

I very rarely attend the University and it works for me but it wouldn't be for everyone. I am mindful that my face isn't known around the department but since I don't want an academic or research career it doesn't really matter.

I'm actually doing the PhD because it would be difficult for me to move at present.

Good luck to you both.

Based on what you have said, you should take the job especially if it's permanent.

Please be kind to yourself and try not to be so hard on yourself. You've given things a fair go and things haven't worked as intended. You are showing great consideration for all involved and although I can't advise of the processes involved, I would like to think your supervisor could advise.

Just wanted to wish you well and seriously don't be so hard on yourself. You've shown great courage by sticking it out for so long and it also takes courage to say 'this isn't for me' and to know when to walk away.

Chin up!

======= Date Modified 01 Jun 2009 15:29:29 =======
It's not an easy decision to make but do right by yourself as in life most people do.

Edit: Just saw the post by Poppy and would agree.

Words cannot describe it and so I'm not going to try...

I hope you're OK as I know you're over here on your own and away from home.

I truly feel for the family and all involved as this would be so, so devastating and as I said words cannot describe how much so.

Things like this do put things in perspective and your reaction shows that you have great compassion.

Look after yourself.

Thanks for all the replies.

Being able to complete the PhD will depend on a number of factors and some are outside my control. A lot will depend on external cooperation, and it's not clear if they'll be able to help, and a lot of red tape which even if things go to plan will eat up a LOT of time. I decided early on to get my head down and work because I need to complete in three years or very shortly after and I doubt this is going to be possible. I'll just ride it out and see what happens.

Cheers!

This thread might be of help http://www.postgraduateforum.com/threadViewer.aspx?TID=11792

(up)(up)(up) I very much enjoyed reading your message - well done and congratulations!

(just a pity I couldn't give you a star as that was a super post, very helpful and so I hope the thumbs up will do)

Thanks Gingersnaps. I don't feel overwhelmed, more concerned about the extreme lack of progress which has been beyond my control. I'll keep doing what I can from my end and hope for the best.