Africa is sort of far from America. The only online PhD universities that I know of are in the U.S. Some, like Capella and, I think, Phoenix, have residency requirements. Capella does have a PhD in instructional design and online learning; it might have a technology one.

Hi Dramagirl,

A while back I felt like quitting and actually posted online here for support. It does feel good to write about your fears and frustrations. I haven't left my support network, this time, but I have for previous degrees and can empathize with you. It will get better. Many of us cry and get scared. Heck, I've cried, gotten scared, and vented almost every term since I started my bloody PhD. It will get better.

Claire

Thank-you, everyone, for your suggestions! I have been talking to my parents, but maybe I need to try and do so when I'm not stressed or angry. I also like the sign idea. I've thought of it, but haven't done it. The kid's five, so he'll probably ignore it anyway (he can't read). It helps knowing that others have gone through this.

Claire

======= Date Modified 29 03 2009 01:03:10 =======
Hello All,


I am new to this forum and joined because I really need to vent to people who understand how stressful getting a PhD is. I'm the first in my family to do this. I am a Canadian who is studying online at a university in the States. I am working full-time, studying full-time, and paying extra because of the exchange rate. My parents are happy, in fact, most of my family is happy, but NO ONE seems to understand when I say I am stressed or I am tired. My nephew comes over every other weekend and sleeps over because his father rents a room not an apartment. Unfortunately, because I live with my parents, he becomes part of my responsibilities. I can't move out, because I can't afford it, and everyone thinks I should be fine with it because he's my nephew. I'm not! He interferes with my weekends, which are important for my studies not to mention my sanity.


Between the stress at work, the stress at home, and the stress being caused by my family, I am ready to CRACK! I want to scream at everyone, but know that will just make me the bad one. If I hadn't spent so much time, sweat, and money on this degree, I think I would quit. Just quit. I'd like to see the look on my elders' faces if I did so. What can I do to make them realize that getting a PhD is not like getting an MA, a BA, or a BEd (my other degrees)? I really don't think they get it.


Thanks for letting me vent,


Claire.