Hey there :o) I'm new to the forum too (as of last Friday at my wits end and found this doing a google search!)... wish i'd found it earlier as I'm 4 months off submitting (what an exciting sound!!! But what a MAMMOTH amount of work to do by then). I've bored my friends and family and boyfriend to tears with PhD moaning, so it's a lifesaver finding this site. Might save many friendships and my relationship!!! Good luck - I've found it an emotional rollercoaster. Nearly gave up half way through first year, managed to stick it out, but this 4th year has been a nightmare... love the research just hate writing up, the stress, no money, continual self-doubt... gosh don't i sound cheery?!!!! It's great. I love-hate it!

Hey Seabird, wow, 4 months off.. I cannot even imagine that.. It's a tough time too though I imagine. All you can do is keep focusd on the finish line and picture the wonderful times ahead when it is all over eh? Best of luck!

Welcome katesays, this forum is a great support and source of info. I hope you enjoy chatting here.

Hi katesays,

Yes there is at least one other Irish person on the forum... me!!! I just discovered it a short while ago also and have got some great advice so far! I am nearly 20 months into my PhD now, and I know what you mean about feeling like you are only getting started! I transferred from MSc to PhD about 2 months ago... as far I'm concerned I'm starting my PhD now, but as far as my supervisors are concerned I'm half way through, with only a year and a half to go!!!

Scary stuff... Anyway welcome to the forum, nice to have a fellow Irishwoman here!!!

thanks fluffymonster and hey Rosy, someone from Ireland, cool!