5 Signs Grad School is Right for You

Deciding on whether to go to grad school is a big decision. Here are five signs that grad school is right for you!

1. The degree you earned in your undergrad program would be much more useful if you continue your education.

Some careers don’t require a college degree, while others require a bachelor’s degree. However, some degrees are not useful unless you go “all the way.” For example, if you want to become a CPA (certified public accountant), then you have to have a specific number of credit hours, which some undergraduate programs do not fulfill. In that case, going to grad school might be the clear choice for you.

2. You are in a place of your life where you can handle the responsibilities of a graduate school program.

Everyone has different priorities in their life. If you are a parent, you might only be able to go to school certain days. If you’re working full time, you might want to put grad school on hold. Grad school is incredibly demanding, so whatever your personal life situation is, you need to make sure this is the timing is right.

3. You are going for the right reasons.

A lot of people graduate from college and feel this sudden fear. They don’t know what to do in the “real world” and try to put it off by staying in their college life. This fear results in a lot of people automatically enrolling in a graduate program even though they aren’t really sure if it’s what they want to do. It’s important to figure out what your intentions are and why you are considering grad school. If you are doing it solely to avoid moving in with your parents, then don’t do it!

4. You can afford it.

Graduate school is typically more expensive than undergraduate programs. It is important to do your research ahead of time and complete your FAFSA early if you are interested in student loans. If you are in the point of your life where you can’t afford school, it is okay. A lot of people go back to school later on in their life. There are also scholarship opportunities available. It would be a good idea to set up an appointment with your financial aid counselor to get a game plan going.

5. Your family, friends, and teachers also think it is a great idea.

Although you shouldn’t let other people make the decision for you, your teachers are a great resource and can provide you with a lot of guidance. Also, your loved ones know you well and will likely give you honest advice. At the end of the day, make your own decision, but don’t be afraid to take some advice from those who know you best.

Whether you choose to go onto graduate school or not, just remember that the most important thing is that you are happy and doing what is best for you!