Debora said on August 13, 2008 00:03:

You’re facing a crossroad... I understand you. But, as Roxette says, listen to your heart. I know it’s not easy going against our parents opinions, but there’s a time in life when we have to start to make our own ones and having a different point of view is not that bad and they have to understand it because this is your life and even they want to help you not to make mistakes they have to understand that you need another thing. At the end, everything is about being happy. I have taken the wrong decision and believe me, it’s not easy to change things.

You should say to them: Mom, dad, thanks for all you did for me till now but it’s time I decide myself what to do for now on.

Good luck!

IPPIE said on August 13, 2008 15:57:

I will tell you what one very smart person have said once: “There is no electricity and we have no water in the building, but we are working like hell!” It is never easy to follow your dreams and be yourself, but do not give up on a wanting! You should state it clear for yourself first which life you would like to live - the one of your parents (your dad’s) or your own one. And if you are sure there is absolutely no way that you can’t find a way to do it. Besides if you really want Ph.D. you will be something like a pioneer. Things change only after someone has changed them. Why not you?
And now something very well known. If you tried and you failed you would know it hadn’t been right, but if you do not try you will never know and you will wonder all your life. It is not hard to admit you have taken a wrong decision, it is hard to take one and stay by it. Besides you can do Ph.D and still work clinic having them both will be much more of use.