PhD program challenges... looking for advice on dealing with university issues

Hello, I’m in need of some advice as I’m facing major issues with my university regarding support for my PhD. I’ve put a lot of effort into my research, but due to COVID delays, technical issues, and patient recruitment challenges, I’m struggling to get it completed.

I have a meeting with my dean soon, and I’m hoping they will allow me to finish my research in Saudi and reduce the fees involved. It would be ideal if I could continue remotely as well. Any advice on how to approach this meeting or what I should be asking for?

That sounds tough. It’s good you have a meeting lined up with the dean. Have you tried documenting all the delays and issues you faced? That could help support your case for reduced fees or remote completion.

@Kingsley
Good point, I have some records but will organize them for the meeting. Thanks!

Freeman said:
@Kingsley
Good point, I have some records but will organize them for the meeting. Thanks!

Definitely a smart move! The more evidence you have, the harder it is for them to argue against.

Maybe also bring up the idea of paying for only the remaining time, rather than the full fees. Sometimes universities are willing to negotiate on that if they see you’re prepared.

Vanya said:
Maybe also bring up the idea of paying for only the remaining time, rather than the full fees. Sometimes universities are willing to negotiate on that if they see you’re prepared.

Yes, that’s one of the things I hope to discuss. Fingers crossed they’re open to it!

@Freeman
Absolutely, can’t hurt to ask. Good luck with the meeting!

You could also mention the mental health challenges you’ve been through and how they impacted your timeline. Universities are often more understanding if they know the full picture.

Kai said:
You could also mention the mental health challenges you’ve been through and how they impacted your timeline. Universities are often more understanding if they know the full picture.

Good idea. I was under a lot of stress but feeling better now. That’s worth mentioning.

@Freeman
Definitely. They might be more supportive if they understand what you’ve been dealing with.

If you can propose a clear, step-by-step plan to finish remotely, they might be more open to it. Show them how finishing from Saudi wouldn’t affect your research quality.

Emory said:
If you can propose a clear, step-by-step plan to finish remotely, they might be more open to it. Show them how finishing from Saudi wouldn’t affect your research quality.

That’s a great idea, I’ll make sure to have a timeline ready to show them how I’d get it done.

@Freeman
Perfect! They’ll probably appreciate seeing you have everything planned out.

Best of luck with your meeting! It sounds like you have a good plan. Keep calm and go in prepared—you’ve got this!

Ben said:
Best of luck with your meeting! It sounds like you have a good plan. Keep calm and go in prepared—you’ve got this!

Thanks, I really appreciate the encouragement! I’ll update after the meeting.