Suggestions?????
**Seeking Guidance on a Major Life Decision** I've been in a relationship with a guy for approximately 3-4 months. He appears to be a genuinely kind and respectful person, prioritizing family values and commitment. We have only a one-year age difference (I’m nearly 27, and he’s 28). Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Ireland and hails from Pakistan. Meanwhile, I’m still in Pakistan, exploring my career options. Last night, he and I had an in-depth discussion about our future. He plans to visit Pakistan in April and expressed a desire to meet in person. He specifically said: "I’d like to meet you, talk about everything, and get to know each other better. We can also discuss our future—our expectations. I’ll speak with my parents, and if everything goes well, we can get engaged. During my next visit, we can plan for marriage. However, I want to be transparent: right now, I’m only on a PhD stipend and not working. A PhD requires full-time dedication, and living expenses here, particularly housing, are quite high. Even if I find a job, it’s essential that my partner also works since managing everything on a single income can be challenging unless one is earning exceptionally well, which is rare. I don’t want to waste your time; in our society, your time is particularly precious. If I wait to marry until after my PhD, that means three more years of delay. I don’t want to put you on hold, but if we decide to marry now, we’d be entering a financially difficult phase." **My Concerns & Questions** I genuinely like him—our values align well, and we communicate effectively. However, I’m confused about the practical implications of this decision: 1. **Career vs. Marriage**: I hold an MPhil in Communication Studies, and in Pakistan, I could potentially secure a stable government job with a good salary. However, he has indicated that he doesn’t plan to return to Pakistan. If I were to move to Ireland, what job prospects would be available to me with my degree from Pakistan? Would I be able to build a career there, or would I have to start from scratch? 2. **His Financial Situation**: He is currently relying on his PhD stipend and mentioned that even if he finds work, his partner will also need to contribute financially. What types of part-time jobs could he do while pursuing his PhD? Would those jobs provide sufficient income to support us, even partially? 3. **Timing of Marriage**: If I marry him, when would be the best time for me to move to Ireland? Given his current financial struggles, I don’t want to add to his burden. Would it be wiser to wait until he achieves more financial stability before relocating? 4. **Family Planning & Expenses**: If we marry and decide to have children down the line, would we be able to manage financially? Ireland is known for its high cost of living, and raising a family there without solid financial backing could be challenging. 5. **Long-Term Financial Stability**: If I choose to wait three years until he completes his PhD, how likely is it that his financial situation will improve significantly? Or could it take longer for him to achieve financial stability? I’d greatly appreciate insights from anyone who has experienced similar situations. Should I prioritize my career in Pakistan, or take the plunge and move to Ireland with him? If I choose marriage, when would be the optimal time for me to relocate? Would I have job opportunities in Ireland with my Pakistani degree? Additionally, what kind of part-time employment are available to him while he continues his PhD, and what is the typical pay for those roles? Thank you in advance for any advice or insights you can share!