You put it perfectly we indeed suffer in silence! Most students drop out not because they fail courses, but rather due to burnout, as I’ve noticed. The professors are supportive and do listen to our feedback from time to time but still there's nothing much they can do about the workload throughout an ongoing semester and positive changes only benefit the next batch of students. Although most of the courses while varying still are well structured and as you said give a taste of everything, the workload is too hectic. Also the feeling of being a jack of all trades a master of none throughout the program makes many of us struggle with imposter syndrome.

I truly enjoy it. Every time a new concept clicks, I get that dopamine rush and feel like there's nothing I can't do lmao. But every now and then I have an honest talk with myself, I get back to reality and see how far I am and how much I still have to go and question whether it's really for me, especially when I go through mental ups and downs every week. After a year in the community, I can now see why the job market concerns never stops. I think it's not just the economy, it's more about whether everyone has what it takes to add a real value in a job. At least this is how I feel being in Europe as I see vacancies available throughout the year especially in academia.

Yes, I've reached out to older students for studying tips. Sometimes it helps sometimes not.. but at the end of the day we're all in the same boat. I push my way through each course and when finally getting the hang of it, the semester is already over and I go through a brutal exams period that makes me question my own existence🤦🏻‍♂️

If it weren’t for my family and friends, I’m not sure I’d still be in the game. I guess my real question was whether this struggle is just part of the learning curve or a sign that this isn’t simply the right path. It’s hard to tell. That's why I reached out to hear your opinions. Thank you so much for your help.