Did you know that only about 20% of each graduating class from UVM goes directly into graduate programs post-graduation? An overwhelming majority of your peers will build significant career experience before continuing their education. Here are some of the reasons:
- What you want to study and why will be clearer. Many people require time in the workplace in-between undergraduate and graduate programs to gain clarity about what they hope to get out of their studies and the relevancy to future career goals.
- Your time in the classroom will be richer because of it. You know all of those times you read about a concept in a textbook or discuss a case study in class? Imagine how much more real they will be when you have experienced them for yourself IRL.
- Because adulthood. Taking time off before grad school can support the creation of healthy habits that were easy to stray from in undergrad. When you work full-time, getting 7-9 hours of sleep, having a regular gym routine, and eating healthy can be easier to achieve.
- You can earn and save money while you wait. Another perk of working after college? Having a stream of income to help pay down student loans, save toward future financial goals, and maybe enjoying the occasional meal out are nice ways to reward yourself for a degree hard-earned while sensibly planning for grad school.
- There’s more time to research and prepare for applying. Take time to investigate programs, study for entrance exams, attend the Fall Grad School Fair, work on your personal statement at a relaxed pace, obtain letters of recommendation…there’s so much to do, why rush it?
Going to grad school is a personal decision based on individual circumstances. It’s a large investment financially, emotionally, and mentally and will provide the most benefit when approached thoughtfully and intentionally.
~*Ashley Michelle*