Is Graduate School Right for You? At some point in your college career you will need to decide what career path you would like to take and sometimes this also means making a decision regarding graduate school. Graduate school is not a way to avoid the “real world” or something that you should take on if you are unsure about your career goals. So, is a graduate program necessary for your career? Here are some tips to help you decide.
1. SHOULD I GO TO GRADUATE SCHOOL? • Do you need advanced educational knowledge for your career goals? • Does your career require post-secondary education? • Will graduate school help you advance in your career? • Are you deeply interested in the subject AND do you have the time and financial resources to take on another degree?
human resources department and see if your company has a similar program. Many companies view this as an investment in you so you may be required to continue working for them after your degree is completed so that they can recoup their investment. • Financial aid: This can include student loans, fellowships, and scholarships. Talk with your campus financial aid office about options. Fellowships and scholarships can come from the University or private organizations so be sure to research opportunities in your field.
Is it better to work first or attend graduate school immediately after graduation?
• Teaching/Research Assistantships: Many positions include a monthly stipend and a fee waiver. Check with your University to see what opportunities are available.
You should work first if…
4. WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
2. WHEN SHOULD I ATTEND GRADUATE SCHOOL?
• You would like to have some real-world work experience before starting another degree.
If you have decided that graduate school might be the right fit for you, start researching!
• Your graduate program requests you to have work experience (this is common among many MBA programs and some Ph.D. programs).
• Talk to family, friends, professors, and Career Services staff to get their prospective about programs and the differences between undergraduate and graduate programs.
• You cannot afford graduate school right now. You should go to graduate school now if…
• Identify schools you are interested in and research the application process.
• You are absolutely, 100% sure that you need a graduate degree to obtain your dream job (doctor, lawyer, professor, etc.).
• Investigate cost of attendance, rent, and other costs associated with a graduate program and make a financial plan.
• You have been awarded grants, scholarships, teaching assistantships, etc. that will relieve some of the financial obligations of graduate school.
• Research testing dates and preparatory programs (GRE, GMAT, LSTAT, MCAT).
3. HOW CAN I PAY FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL?
• Create a timeline or use the one provided to keep you on track for your applications.
• Employer Scholarship/Tuition Reimbursement: some employers will pay for a percentage of your advanced education! Check with your 20
2020 CAL MARITIME CAREER GUIDE — NAVIGATING YOUR CAREER PATH
