Is Graduate School the Right Option for Me?
CHECK THE BOXES THAT APPLY TO YOU:
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My family or friends think I should go to graduate school. |
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I have a good idea about what work I would like to pursue, and I’m sure it requires a higher degree. |
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I’ve always been curious about ______ (field of study). |
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I’m ready to handle the financial cost of graduate school because I know it will open the door to specific job opportunities. |
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Graduate school seems better than entering the job market (with a bachelor’s degree). |
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I have talked with people who are working in my field of interest and I’m pretty sure I would like the daily work. |
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I want to live in a new place, so graduate school seems like a good way to do that. |
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I already have the momentum and discipline school requires – I’m motivated to finish a higher degree now instead of waiting a few years. |
**If you checked any of the 4 boxes on the left and less than 3 on the right, you should probably do some more career exploration before going to grad school.**
Graduate school is an investment that does not always guarantee financial or career gains, so it is important you assess whether and when it is the best option for you. We encourage you to write down your reflections/responses to these questions to help you process your motivations/goals/etc.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION:
- Describe in detail the career you want to pursue. (You’ll be expected to have clearly defined goals to get into graduate school.)
- Is a grad degree a requirement for your career (will it make employment easier)?
- Who wants you to go to graduate school? (Is it your interest/motivation to go for an advanced degree, or are you responding to others?)
- Can you handle the financial strain of graduate study?
- Will the time/money you spend on grad school repay you for money/experience you would have earned if you took a job immediately after undergrad?
- What can you do with your bachelor’s degree?
- What other avenues are available to you for continued learning? (Examples: professional workshops, community college classes, continuing ed seminars and certifications)
- If you put off grad school one or more years, what could you gain?