<p>I will chime in with the others here. You are the same age as my kids and I will tell you what I would tell them. While every relationship needs time and caring, your education comes first. If you are in a partnership with someone who is so needy that you don’t have time to study, is this healthy for you? If you have not completed your education, you are not in a position to support a family either emotionally or financially ( whether or not your partner works too). You are at the stage of life where you are dating to see what qualities you like in a partner and what you don’t want. Nobody is perfect, but some qualities are not going to lead you to a healthy and mutually supportive relationship.</p>
<p>I agree with Chris- it’s not the studying. Next will be the job, travel, or anything else away from the relationship. I agree that while the studying/job is a priority, workaholism won’t be healthy either. There will be times when you need to be there for your family- a newborn, someone has surgery- whatever. In order for you to be able to ask for time off- you must be established in a secure job. These are decisions made by mature adults in times of family changes, not just to placate a needy person. You are not married and in no position to be married now. Maybe she is wanting to settle down now, but are you ready? If this is what she wants now, that person may not be you.</p>
<p>You may care for this person, but IMHO, the interference with your schooling and future career is not good. It could be wrong person and/or wrong time. Determine your priorities and your focus. If it is your education, then at your age, you have to put everything you can into it. As much as young people like to be in relationships, it may not be the right thing at this time. Are you ready to forgo your degree for your partner? Are you even mature enough to decide this? IMHO you should not have to sacrifice your education for anyone. Luther says “Next”, mine would be “Not Now”</p>