[whoswho]

It's the end of the year and it's time for me to move back home for summer. The problem is, I can't afford to come back to university next year.

My PDoc has truly been amazing. When the school stopped paying for my sessions, he continued to see me for free. When I told him that I couldn't afford a taxi, he sent his secretary to chauffer me to and from his office. He keeps regular contact with me on weekends and between sessions. He squeezes me in for emergency sessions when needed. He even asked to read my thesis paper! (And he actually read it!)

I feel so terrible, like I have somehow failed him by not coming back to university next year, like I should have done something different (I don't know what) to make the finances work out. He has extended this kindness and effort towards me and now I have to go; we can't even finish what we started. I have not been able to directly tell him that I won't be coming back next year. Usually I'm very good at burning my bridges, even with my so-called close friends, but I'm having so much trouble with this. How do I force myself to move on?

[WePow]

Life happens and brings changes. Your PDoc was reaching out to you because he cared. He knew you would one day move on. The point is that he wanted to help change your life for the better - while he could be a part of it.

Don't burn any bridges. Just be very honest. Let him know the facts. And let him know how you appriciate him and how you will miss him.

This sounds so hard, I'm sorry you aren't coming back next year. BUt you never know... what if something works out after all? Do you maybe have some options? Applying for scholarships? Getting a summer job? Maybe something will surprise you and you will be able to come back!
You're not failing your PDoc by not finishing...but I hear you that it feels that way. Just tell him... straight out...what your situation is. I am sure he will understand. Let him know how much you appreciate him. Maybe you could give him a card? I bet that things will go more positively than what you fear.