Just started my PhD and am completely miserable. I'm not even sure that I actually wanted to do this/a PhD in the first place! I've had to move campus from last year although I am still at the same university. Don't know anyone and am feeling really isolated. Does anyone know if it would be possible to get transferred back to the other campus - then I could be based there but travel to see my supervisors when needed? One of them is himself based at the other campus. It's about 1hr 40 mins drive.

It seems that you were destined to feel this way as you had doubts from before you started your project. Perhaps the best thing is to talk to your supervisor, see what they say. You could try making friends on the new campus, you might find that once you start making friends, you will enjoy the project more.

Most people feel unsettled in a new place at the beginning. It is likely that you will feel differently in a few weeks when you've met some new friends and got a feel for the place. Perhaps give it a month and see how you feel then?

I agree with Ann, give it a while before you go and try moving back. Just make sure you keep an open-mind about the new place though. I think a lot of people probably feel isolated during their PhD (it's one of the things my supervisor warned me about). Good luck!

I think it's true that most people get a bit of an unpleasant shock when they start their PhD, so what you're feeling now is probably 'normal'. BUT looking back on my first few months and what's happened since then I'd say if you still feel the same by about Christmas you should quit - don't count on things getting better (sorry to be so depressingly negative!). Your research alone won't be enough to get you through the next few years with your sanity intact.

I have a similar experience, this is my second week and although I am determined to do the Phd, it all seems I am in no where. I dont know where to start on my topic even though I have read around the subject. I do wish this becomes more clearer in few months

give yourself a few more time before you decided to quit. in my opinion, a week is too fast, because you are just about adapting to your new place and situation. i myself quit my phd after a few months and after giving myself chances to continue working for several months (and later i found that the place and the time is just not right at the moment). so, give it a chance first ... do not decide too fast and think of it deliberately ...

i know how u feeeeeel...

just quit then let someone more deserving take over

Anon, why don't you tell yourself that when you get depressed with your work not going the right way or you just get plain fed up! Arrogant sod.