A Graduated Point of View: Is it right for you?

by Jill Cook, Alestle Graduate Assistant/ Writers’ Coach

Graduate school.  For some people it’s the next logical step, for others it’s hell, no. For others, it means confusion.

The economy and job prospects are horrible for students finishing their undergraduate studies. The idea of actually getting a professional career can be terrifying, but going back to school sounds even more dreadful. Making this choice can be impossibly difficult, unless fate just throws the answer in your lap.  Here are a few things to think about if you’re having difficulties deciding.

Money. Graduate school is more expensive than undergraduate school, so how are you going to cover that cost? SIUE has some great opportunities with graduate assistant positions. Other universities offer similar opportunities along with scholarships.

Some companies will pay for you to continue your education, but finding a job nowadays is difficult at best. And if student loans are the answer, remember: that is future debt. Can you pay it off without selling your soul to the devil? If you manage to cover tuition, remember that books are also more expensive.

Time. Plan on another two years, unless you’re a brainiac and plan on doing nothing but study. Do you have that kind of time, or should family, career, or other obligations take forefront?

The right reason. Every graduate program will want to make sure you are going in for the right reason.  If all you can come up with is, “I’m scared,” “My parents are paying,” or “I need a different job,” then you need to reconsider. Too much money and time have to be dedicated for those reasons.

The graduate program also wants to make sure you fit their program. There is a difference between mass communication and speech communication (or electrical engineering and computer science,) and your reason needs to fit the right program.  Talk to some of the professors in the graduate program, or even the program coordinator. They can give you tips on what they’re looking for.

Having the master’s degree in the end can be a big boost for landing a great job. It can also be a boost for your ego. But before you even apply, you should consider those three things. Then again, the right answer might just smack you, but let’s be real.