I worked whilst studying for a FT Masters and, whilst that was extremely tough, it was no where near as hard as the PhD. You have to be much more disciplined and the level of work is much harder. There are no 'deadlines' and it takes real effort to do both. Like I said, I don't want to put you off, but it's best you're prepared!!!

Golfpro is absolutely right. It will look VERY odd to do it the 'wrong' way around

I don't want to sound pessimistic and I love the fact I'm doing a PhD, but it is also extremely depressing (especially as a PT student). My supervisor said to me when I first approached him - if you don't think you can sit down after a tough day at work and do a few hours of study then don't do a PT PhD. I think he's absolutely right. I don't have any 'free time' anymore - only work and study - you have to love your PhD more than having a life!!!

But as I keep on saying, I love the PhD and I'm willing to make those sacrifices. But I wish someone had told me straight at the start what it would be like so I would have been better prepared (which is why I'm telling you all this!!!)

This is a really bad day to ask my advice on this! I'm PT and it is bloody hard. Today I'm dealing with an academic who is annoyed with me because I can't attend a seminar because I work - I've already used up loads of annual leave to do other PhD related things and I just can't take more time off to go to a seminar that isn't even vaguely related to my research area. A PT PhD is doable (or at least I'm told so), but don't underestimate what bloody hard work it is (and how little support you will get). I gave up my well paid job to do a less stresseful admin job to try and make things easier on me and it is still impossible some weeks. I wouldn't not do the PhD and I do love what I'm doing, but make sure you're 100% committed and have worked out exactly HOW you are going to fit this in with your life before you start

What is your subject area?

Equal Ops is stupid - they know who they want to appoint so why not just let them do it and stop wasting everyone else's time. It's not fair, but I'd rather it not be fair and not waste a day trying then going out of my way filling in applications, etc for no reason

Dre - as long as you get the necessary marks and have a sufficient English Language score (if relevant) then there will be lots of unis happy to take your international student fees!

Use it as a chance to go into detail about why you want this project. Highlight all the points that interest you and what you are looking forward to achieving - turn it intp an opportunity to show your enthusiasm for this project. Even if you think you prefer this other project, don't let them think that

Whahey!

I have people think I'm a Dr because I've done a Masters

READ! This will help you familiarise yourself with the subject area and will also help you come up with a lit search. Take notes on everything you do read - your lit review basically outlines the literature already published on your subject area and these notes will form the basis of your review. Oh and good luck!

I would be cautious about magazines - check it is peer reviewed

Even if this guy does know how you feel, a present sends mixed messages. There is not such thing as a half-hearted vally day present because, even if its crap, just the sending of a present makes a statement.

I'm only speaking from a social science view, but surely a lit review may not sufficiently original to be publishable? You should wait until your later chapters which show original thought

And I do think you should just be honest jojo.