OK, so I've posted before about my worries that academic philosophy isn't for me...
Now, to follow up and ask an urgent question...
Before deciding to accept a great offer, I was unsure about whether or not I wanted to pursue philosophy in graduate school. To be safe, I went to the program and started recently. It is completely clear to me now, however, that I made the wrong decision. I belong in an entirely different field. Not to mention, I left my partner for grad school and that too was a huge mistake. So, I want to leave, and soon.
My question is this: Is it just totally unacceptable for me to leave after only one semester? My TA-ship is for a year, but I have found out that I can legally terminate my position in December. So there is no worry there. Rather, I'm more worried about having a "big black mark" on my record, and burning serious bridges with the philosophy and/or academic world. I'm sure it's better to stay for an entire year, but I don't think I can bring myself to do it.
What do you guys think? Is it a huge deal to leave so soon? Is it putting the department out (they won't be admitting any new students in the Winter)? Will my decision to leave affect future admissions in other programs?
Help!
philo_gal