Graduate/Professional School - The appropriate time to attend
Advantages of Proceeding Directly to Graduate School:
- Continuity between undergraduate learning and specialization of graduate field.
- Easier to finance graduate school prior to other financial obligations (e.g., mortgages, family, loans).
- Beneficial to get educational preparation "out of the way" prior to one's career development.
- Can defer repayment of undergraduate loans.
Disadvantages of Proceeding Directly to Graduate School:
- Uncertain about purpose of study (Why am I attending graduate school?).
- Goals conflict (I want to get my graduate work "out of the way," gain practical experience, travel, make money).
- Unable to grow into professional role without non-academic life experience.
Advantages of Waiting Two to Five Years Before Attending Graduate School:
- Acquire work experience that provides knowledge of field(s) of interest. Some schools (e.g., M.B.A.) seek applicants with experience.
- Refreshed and motivated to pursue academic work.
- Establish financial stability prior to further education.
- Ability to obtain internships, fellowships, etc. for assistance during graduate school.
