PhD problem

[C:WINSOCKKA9QSPOOLMAIL]

I finished my degree in 1993 with a 2:1, I decided to take a breather 
to decide where to go next, as I didn't want to jump into something 
I'd regret later. I very soon realised I did want to carry on with a 
Ph.D. Initially I began with deciding on a proposal in order to show 
the institutions to which I was applying that I could think for 
myself, but I soon got hooked on the proposal itself. 

I found two supervisors who where interested in the project and we 
made applications for funding. This has been ongoing for over 2 years 
now, but finally a group has displayed a real interest, and although 
nothing is certain, I am seeing light at the end of the tunnel.

I would like to agree with Miss Lucas's point, that there are no easy 
routes. Having said this, despite the low patches, I've enjoyed the 
struggle for the most part. It means that each small victory is your 
own. I've re-learnt the old saying "if you want something done, do it 
yourself."

To anybody out there who is struggling with whatever aspect of this 
problem, getting a Ph.D. or struggling with one they've already got, 
I'd just like to encourage you to keep going. Ann-Marie is right 
when she says: 
>  Nothing in life is easy, or fair, but its pretty much all possible 
>  if you want it.

Having said this I do feel she is being a little hard. My fiance is 
currently studying for a Ph.D. and has had a horendous time, (I can't 
go into details) but suffice it to say, it's easy to sit on the outside 
an want in, but it's equally easy to sit on a bad inside and see 
outside as a greener life. 

Anyhow I hope I've encouraged and not offended anyone.


joanne at dratt.demon.co.uk