Swimming and diving class, Newcomb College, Tulane
Reader Jesse, blogger at the Professional Intern, shares her advice on what to consider when thinking about grad school.
I loved being a college student. So, when my employer offered to pay for part of my tuition for a graduate program, I had to think long and hard about it. My schedule wouldn’t be as hectic as it was during undergrad, since I’d be attending graduate school part-time, but it would still eat into a sizeable portion of my free time. Ultimately, it was my husband who convinced me to return to school: “It’s education you don’t have to pay for, and if you ever leave your company, you can take it with you.”
My husband is often right (please don’t tell him I said that), and he was right about this. Returning to school gave me a chance to advance my career and to keep my time management skills sharp. But returning to school after a long absence isn’t for everyone. Ask yourself three questions before making your decision.
Can I afford it? With higher education costs outpacing inflation, that’s one of the most important questions to begin with. Many college grads are still wrestling with student loan payments and adding more loans would push your future financial goals further away. Of course, if you qualify for a grant or tuition reimbursement, deciding to return to school should be an easy choice to make.
Do I have the time? If you were a working student, you remember how rough it was to fit studying in between working, classes and your social life. This time around, though, chances are you have a job that won’t let you slide if you come in late or stay home to study. There are colleges and universities that offer online degree programs, which can make the commute to classes as short as the walk to your computer desk at home; but you’ll still have to put in time when it comes to studying and completing assignments. If you’re dedicated, it can be done.
What’s the point? What will you do with your degree once you earn it? Make sure you have a clear game plan for your life after graduation; use your degree to get ahead at your current job, or to make a move toward the career you’ve always wanted. Consider consulting your university’s career center for ideas on how to leverage your education after you graduate.
There’s a host of other questions to consider—how school will affect your personal life, whether your job will give you time off for assignments and tests—and you’ll have to weigh the positives and negatives for yourself. Even good opportunities require compromises and sacrifices—but if it’s worth it in the end, you’ll be glad you made the choice.
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