So, you’ve been thinking about going to grad school, but feel the timing is bad because of the economy. While many of us are wisely putting off unnecessary expenses until the economic dust settles, putting off your graduate degree might not be such a wise idea. Right now might be the absolute best time to go back to school and pursue your advanced degree. Surprised? Well, consider these five reasons why you might want to go to grad school right now.
1. You’re not working anyway. If you’ve already been laid off, you might be feverishly searching for a job and not even thinking about going back to school. But, if you can get by on your unemployment and a part time job, you might be wise to go to school now. You can go to school full time, which will reduce the amount of time it takes to get your degree. And, by the time you finish your graduate degree, job opportunities will likely have increased and you’ll be even better qualified because of your master’s. You’ll open up a whole new level of positions that will be available with your new degree. 2. It’s cheaper right now. In an effort to stimulate the economy, more and more government loans and grants are available to help people increase their job skills. You may be able to go to grad school for free, or almost free. 3. You may need that degree. If you’re still working, but your company is not doing well financially, you may find yourself faced with a layoff in the near future. Working on your degree now, while you still have a job, might help you get better prepared to find the next job. 4. You can take advantage of your company’s tuition reimbursement. If you work for a company that offers tuition reimbursement, take advantage of that benefit now. Getting your degree on the company’s nickel is a great way to improve your career, whether you stay with your current company or move on. 5. It’s still the way to make more money. An advanced degree increases your earning power. And, in this economy, anything you can do to increase your salary is a good step. Perhaps you fear that your spouse will lose his or her job or you’d like to have one stay at home spouse in the near future. Getting your graduate degree now increases your earning potential for the rest of your career.
There’s no question that graduate school isn’t for everyone, and it certainly isn’t a good idea for everyone during this tight economy. But, for many people, the time is right, and the economy either shouldn’t affect the decision at all, or may even be a catalyst that helps people move to that phase of their career and education right now. If you’ve been considering graduate school, continue to do so, and consider whether this economy might just be the best reason to go ahead and get that master’s degree right now.
Phyllis Zerkle blogs about how to choose among the best masters degree programs.
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