Should I Do A Masters?

One of the hardest decisions to make about life after uni is whether to take on that postgraduate degree or use the time to decide what you actually want to do with your life.

Some of you will have a solid plan. Your degree will take you straight to where you want to be. Others have a vague plan but are unsure where to begin. And then there are those who just don’t have a clue.

You could get to wear a fancy hat twice

Whatever category you fit into, I am here to spread the word: It’s ok not to have a plan! In fact, it makes things interesting. You’ll have time for worthwhile experiences until you eventually have your light bulb vocation-realization moment. First, let’s talk about postgrad degrees…

If you’re in your first year, don’t worry too much – there’s a lot of time to sort your head out so, stop reading and go to a party or something.

For you keen second-years and panicking third-years, it’s time to take a few things into consideration.

Reasons to Do A Masters

1. You love your subject and would be motivated about studying for another year.

Not because you like what you study and think ‘might as well’… postgrad study requires work and effort: basically like your undergrad days on steroids. If you’re not 100% on doing it then either go into work or go travelling until you figure out a plan. It’s too much time and money to waste to be unsure about.

2. You need it for a career or you’re aiming for a PhD.

Not because you’d just look better having it on your CV – you could be shooting yourself in the foot by making yourself overqualified. Employers will often value work-experience over a masters, so you’ve got to be sure postgrad study boosts your chances of a job.

Watch out for next week’s article, ‘Part II: Is The World Worth My Time?’