Last summer I failed my comps/quals of my PhD program. I did not have a chance to take a second try, as my spring semester grades were poor. The first semester (fall) was good, though.
I could not fully concentrate on my studies during the spring semester as there were some family issues in my home country.
My advisor believes in me and said I should continue my studies. I am still very much motivated to do research in my area.
There are couple of concerns, though. How will my poor performance in the spring semester (and consequently failing comps) affect my chances into getting to another program? How should I approach my personal statement?