Probably the biggest issue is pre tenure, as there isn't even a possible way to do anything else. On the plus side, my work as PhD is self directed and I can m

Probably the biggest issue is pre tenure, as there isn't even a possible way to do anything else. On the plus side, my work as PhD is self directed and I can most often come in whenever I like, and work whenever I like. Also, of course, my work is very rewarding most of the time. The downside is: I feel pressure to work always, also on weekends. I will not be taking vacations, I will not visit family over holidays, I will be at university. I earn the equivalent of minimum wage for someone working full-time. I work more.