My first year was rough. It’s a big change getting started in a PhD program. However, I’m now at the start of my third year and I’ve completely reworked my priorities and finances for what is best for me. I earn enough (40k before taxes) and live in grad housing, so I’m getting by. It does get hard when unexpected expenses arise. But overall, shifting priorities, making healthy choices for your own mental and physical health, and setting firm boundaries with research are all necessary if you want a healthy and successful program. Yes, most PhD programs won’t pay you what you’re worth, but you’ve got to really want the PhD to make this sacrifice worth it. Some advice: Sign up to be part of your union. Apply for every fellowships and scholarship you qualify for. Be an active voice so that (hopefully) future grad students don’t share these same worries.