Thinking about Going to Grad School? Here’s What You Need to Consider

Going to grad school is a big decision, especially if you just finished undergrad or are working a full time gig. There are a few key things you need to consider when you’re thinking about going to grad school.
Below are 5 of the most important things to think about when you’re debating if you should go to grad school. If you’re a visual person, it’s helpful to sit with some paper or a journal and just take notes to go with each one. 
When you’re done, you’ll have a big picture to look at and guide your decision making.
Overall, remember that you have time to make this decision! It’s definitely not one you want to rush, so don’t worry about going “too slow” or being “behind.” When it comes to making a decision as big as going to grad school, take as much time as YOU need! 

Career goals

First, sit down and really think about your career goals. They can be as long as 20 years or, if you’re not sure about that far ahead, then think about the next 5-7 years.
Keep in mind that our careers will look way different than generations before us: it’s not common to work at the same company for 40+ years with a straight line career anymore. So, it’s okay to think of your career goals in a general or multi-dimensional way.
Once you’ve figured out what you know about your career goals right now, think about how instrumental going to grad school is in achieving them. If it’s absolutely essential, then you might have (part of) your answer. If you’re still on the fence, then keep reading to learn more.

Employability & Experience

This one ties into your career goals: how employable are you with grad school vs without it. Are you in a field where grad school is required to be hired, like physical or speech therapies? Or is there more flexibility in what jobs you’re qualified for without it?
Also, consider your experience up to this point. If you have little or no experience in your field, then grad school could be a great way to get started. However, if you have enough experience in your field that you’re employable without grad school, then you might not need it.
Your employability with and without grad school and your experience in your chosen field are both important considerations to make before deciding to go to grad school. If it helps, make a list of your experiences and the types of jobs you’re hoping to get, then examine if grad school is necessary to connect those two.
Do you have questions about what it takes to make it in your field? Check out these tips on How to Start Networking, so you can score interviews with the experts in your field!

Preparation 

Applying for and going to grad school both involve preparation. When you’re thinking about going to grad school, remember to consider everything you’d need to prepare to do it.
For example, are you able to revamp your resume, write a personal statement, and fill out applications? How far do you want to go for grad school, and would you have to move there? Do you have time to apply for scholarships and fellowships?
Try making a list while you think through everything you’d need to go to graduate school, then decide if you’re willing to do everything on it and how long you need to get it done. 
If you have the time and resources to get through the list in a couple months, great. If you don’t, then plan to go to grad school in 1-2 years while you get everything together.
Again, quick reminder, you have time. Slow down, take a deep breath, and trust your journey. You can go at your own pace and still achieve your biggest, scariest career goals- I promise.

Cost

This is the big one: money. Grad school is not cheap (or free), unfortunately, so there’s a lot to consider in terms of cost.
First, look into if you’re able to get a fellowship or assistantship to offset the cost of school- these can lower your tuition and even include housing. Once you have an idea of what your cost will be with scholarships, fellow/assistantships, and housing, then evaluate the amount of debt and savings you have now.
I’m definitely not an expert on the financial side of education, but I do know it’s important to have your career goals at the top of your mind when you’re thinking about cost. If going to grad school is the only way to achieve them, then (in my worldview) any debt is worth it.
Don’t be afraid to talk this out with a trusted family member, favorite professor, or close friend. Even if they’re not an expert, they can still be a sounding board for you.

Mental health

This is the most important factor when you’re deciding whether or not to go to grad school. If your mental health would just take a beating from grad school, then it going to grad school shouldn’t be your priority right now.
Aka, if you’re not up for it now, don’t fall into the trap of thinking this is your only chance. You can always decide to invest your time and energy into YOU for a few years, and then go to grad school once you feel ready.
I’ll be honest, by the time I was halfway through my senior year of undergrad I was completely burnt out. I couldn’t possibly imagine going to school right after, because I knew my brain was totally fried. And, yep, I had plenty of people tell me I’d never go if I didn’t go right after undergrad, but I ignored them.
I knew what was best for me- not going to graduate school- and I listened to my instincts. If I decide that graduate school is a necessary part of my career goals in the next couple years, then I’ll consider going.
So, more than anything else on this list, take the time to dive deep into if going to grad school is the right option for your mental health. If you know you’re ready for it, then definitely jump right in. But, if you think you need a little more time, then take that time and come back to the idea when you’re ready.
Going to grad school is a big decision, and it takes a lot of time and consideration to go for it. When thinking about grad school, consider your career goals, your employability and experience, the preparation you’d need, the cost, and your mental health. Above all, remember to give yourself plenty of time and space to make this decision. You don’t have to rush anything, because your career isn’t a race.
Whether or not you go to grad school, networking will upgrade your career! Grab my free guide on how to network with confidence & transform your career!