> You're not generally required to take any specific course as a graduate student. When you come back, take classes that interest you, not what you require to pass the exams.

Sadly, all my classes are compulsary, except one, which we get to choose. They're also really interesting, in a field I love, and I've enjoyed them thoroughly. What has been a real struggle is the work load. I've effectively worked 10 hours a day, 7 days a week for the past 8 months (with some time off at Christmas). At this stage, I am mentally and physically exhausted.

> I damn near committed suicide. The depression lasted for three years. It was a struggle just to survive.

I'm very sorry to hear that. If I am honest, depression is not really something I have ever suffered from or something I ever felt: something that I am very grateful for.