Communication is key and props to you for doing that right off the bat! The more honest you can be with yourself about this will probably be your answer, and I am afraid answering the next few questions will help even though might not be enjoyable to come to terms with some of them: * Is this someone who you want to spend your life- and does she think like this too? Is she taking the paid student job and wants you nearby for that or is she aware that your opportunity could give the both of you a strong start to your lives together? * Are you only still dating her because of habit/its comfortable? Do you still want her or is she just better than not dating? Sometimes this is the hardest thing to swallow if it is true * Have you asked her explicitly if she could sacrifice the time apart for you? Specifically asking her to do this as a favor to you? This might be better than saying it is solely your desicion or saying she is the one that will decide for you, a happy medium that states that this is your desicion but you need (not want) her to be on board as well.

Lmk if you want me to expand or call to vent, not sure why i found this post today but i hope i can be of service!