The world we live in has drastically changed over the past year and day-to-day life is nothing like we have seen it before. With graduation looming and the state of the job market being highly volatile, what does this mean in terms of going to graduate school? Is it worth it to continue your education or is it better to enter the true “adult” world and find your place in your desired industry?
If you are debating whether or not graduate school is the right path for you, it is critical to determine your goals and what you want to gain from obtaining a graduate degree. This step will take some self-reflection as to what your future career and personal goals are, as well as research to find a program that meets your needs and expectations. Graduate school focuses more on what research you want to conduct or special tracks and certifications you want to achieve. It is important to take a close look at the faculty and what their current research topics are and what specializations are being included within the program. These factors will play a key role in determining what schools you apply to and if graduate school is a path you want to consider.
Another important factor to consider whether graduate school is the appropriate path for you is the current application process. As a senior in the midst of applying to graduate school, it is very daunting since the application process has gone through a couple of changes. Many schools have waived the GRE which leaves many questions unanswered: if I take the GRE, do I still need to hit the average score typically expected of the program? Will my score be held against me? If I do not take the GRE, will that be held against me? Although it is nice to know you do not have to spend the $200 to take this exam, it leaves many applicants wary of how competitive their applications truly are.
Additionally, it is important to consider the financial aspect of going to graduate school. Obtaining an undergraduate degree places the majority of students in debt and those who choose to further their education by going to graduate school open the door to take on even more debt or debt for the first time. Although many programs offer aid in the form of scholarships, teacher assistant (TA) positions, graduate assistant (GA) position, and fellowships, these forms of aid are highly competitive. In addition, many universities are dealing with budget cuts due to the effects of the pandemic, which leaves many applicants wondering how this will impact the money that is available for scholarships and how many TA and GA positions will be open to those who are not pursuing a doctorate.
Though there are many unknowns with graduate school, there are a few positives to look at that show this may be the best time to attend. With the job market slowing down this gives seniors the perfect time to cultivate themselves when they do enter the work force. Going to graduate school gives you a greater opportunity to grow and further develop your skills, and figure out the direction you want to take in life. It is important to consider that if you decide to postpone graduate school now, will you realistically take the time in five years to go back to school and get your masters while working a full-time job? Furthermore, going to graduate school will allow you to gain a close group of peers. Since graduate school is much more selective, you will quickly get to know everyone in your graduating class and form strong bonds with them. Having people who are in the same position as you will only help push you and give you a safe place to seek advice.
Like many decisions in life there are pros and cons, and deciding whether going to graduate school in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic is no different. It is crucial to recognize that there is no clear cut, perfect path to life to achieve success. Every person has different needs, goals, and wants so you must be able to self-reflect and make sure that the decision you are making is the right one for you. As always, reach out to professors, career counselors, or peers who are currently in graduate school if you have any questions or doubts. Utilizing your resources will only help you in your decision-making process. All in all, graduate school is a personal decision that you just need to weigh every aspect of.