31 applying to PhD programs. So many people are jealous of me even though I feel somewhat the same as you. I know people making way more money than me but taking their lifestyles into consideration, if I wanted to live like them I would’ve done it. I think for me, I always wanted to have a reason for my contributions. Going to work and getting a check every 2 weeks killed me inside. I think that’s why lots of people love shopping and spending money because what would you think about in the meantime. That’s not everyone obviously but it is a lot of people. Right now, you’re a scientist. Making contributions to our global future. When you’re done, you’ll have the experience and credentials to never be out of a job. I look at it as forgoing $5 now for $50 later plus being able to do what’s interesting to me.