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What to do if you are unsure what your next steps after undergrad should be?
I am currently looking into graduate schools.
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5 answers
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Es’s Answer
Volunteering or securing a brief internship can be an excellent method for discovering how a company operates, helping you identify your interests. After that, you can seek further training or education to develop your skills.
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Murph,’s Answer
First figure out your options. Are you ready to work a 9-5? Are you interested in a second or third degree? I was in this exact position after college. Partially because I didn't plan my future better. But the job market had nothing but low paying jobs and I wasn't sure if I was ready for graduate school. I had to figure out what I was passionate about to continue higher education. The last thing you want to do is invest in another degree just because you don't know what you want to do. If you did interviews, I would recommend that you go to different graduate programs or professional programs (law, mba, etc) and talk with an admissions rep or academic advisor. At the end of the day, you have to ask yourself, what you see yourself doing on a good day or bad day, what gives you a passion for life professionally and what brings you joy. Don't worry about money, focus solely on what you want to commit to professionally and whether it's a job or whether your professional passion will require an extra degree. After talking to different people and interviewing, search your heart and the answers will come.
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Brendan’s Answer
Hi Lunelle, that's a great question. I took a gap year between undergrad and going to graduate school, as I wasn't sure if I even wanted to go to grad school -- I was burnt out after undergrad and wanted to figure out my life trajectory. It was a rewarding and challenging year for me (I taught high school) and that year ultimately helped me decide that yes, I wanted to continue to learn more about astronomy. I went on to get a PhD and conduct research into supermassive black holes and extrasolar planets. I applied to grad programs during undergrad and later asked to defer my acceptance for a year, and the program allowed me to do that. So I'd say don't feel obligated to go to grad school just because it may seem like the next step; it is great that you are taking the time to figure out what you want. Getting a relevant job will give you information and still keep your options open in my opinion and if you do go to grad school the gap year can be a good experience. Best of luck!
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Molly’s Answer
Lunelle,
This is a great question! I have full-on and first-hand experience as I was wondering the same thing my senior year of college. I was in the middle of my senior year when I started thinking about where my life would be after graduation. While doing some deep thinking, discussing with my counselors in college, as well as speaking with fellow friends and comrades through their after years once graduating from college, I was still in a dilemma. My head was confused on which path I should take.
What really helped in deciding was making a Pros and Cons list based on each path. After going through the list, and finding the most beneficial ideas and answers, I came upon my final conclusion that I would go into further an education and receive my MBA. And honestly, I believe it was the right path to take. My headspace was already still in school even after graduating, and I was even able to graduate early.. On top of that, having a further education can help your chances tremendously when finding a job. Because I had that Master's degree, I can fully say that it was so much easier to find a job, one in which I have to this day.
But on top of everything, it is up to you to decide what path you want to take in the future. You may receive feedback or opinions of what you should do, but overall, it is your decision and what you think you would appreciate down the line.
I hope this helped and thank you!
Molly H.
This is a great question! I have full-on and first-hand experience as I was wondering the same thing my senior year of college. I was in the middle of my senior year when I started thinking about where my life would be after graduation. While doing some deep thinking, discussing with my counselors in college, as well as speaking with fellow friends and comrades through their after years once graduating from college, I was still in a dilemma. My head was confused on which path I should take.
What really helped in deciding was making a Pros and Cons list based on each path. After going through the list, and finding the most beneficial ideas and answers, I came upon my final conclusion that I would go into further an education and receive my MBA. And honestly, I believe it was the right path to take. My headspace was already still in school even after graduating, and I was even able to graduate early.. On top of that, having a further education can help your chances tremendously when finding a job. Because I had that Master's degree, I can fully say that it was so much easier to find a job, one in which I have to this day.
But on top of everything, it is up to you to decide what path you want to take in the future. You may receive feedback or opinions of what you should do, but overall, it is your decision and what you think you would appreciate down the line.
I hope this helped and thank you!
Molly H.
Updated
Roxana’s Answer
For me, the most rewarding experience was my internship. Be sure to secure one by selecting a company that genuinely interests you, and then let your journey unfold from there.