I am an international student who joined PhD in engineering in one of the top institutes in US. After 3 months into the program, I really don't like the whole aspect of doing PhD and it has led me into a sort of depression and I feel that life has become a drag and I feel that I have become extremely unhappy ever since I joined the PhD. I have a strong urge to quit my program and return back to my country.

These are my reasons why I feel that I should quit

1. Not any more enthusiastic about studies
Having difficulty in concentrating, maybe do not want to study for another 5/6/7 yrs, I feel that I have tricked myself into joining since it was a great opportunity and I did not want to let go of it.

2. Hating reading research papers
Very boring, even did not start off with a lot of enthusiasm,

3. Do not like the environment of the lab, everyone seems to remain frightened
Everybody says it will take a loooong time
U only get vacation when u have very good results ( which is extremely rare )
There is no guarantee of future
I am not enjoying my research
There was a case where a student, after 8 yrs, did not get a phd
Funding can get stopped any time, happened with a few students.
Have to work like hell

4. It will take 6 -7 years, not sure if I want to commit myself for such a long period of time

5. Want to join industry, I am straight out of my undergrad, maybe I want to experience job scene.
6. Also don’t like my prof so much

Very demanding, bossy, does it in his own way
Very manipulative

7. I feel that I will not enjoy my time here and remain depressed forever
8. I have left all of my friends and family. Would like to meet with old friends once in a while

Now these are the reasons why I feel I should not quit
1. One of the best uni – best facilities, good network could lead to very good opportunities after graduation
2. Opportunities to explore US
3. Opportunities to visit other countries during conferences

Any sort of advice would definitely be helpful.

Thanks in advance