Having second thoughts about graduate school.

[-Dragoon-]

I'm currently half-way through my third year as a physics major, and I'm starting to reconsider my initial plans of attending graduate school. It's not so much my grades are bad (cGPA ~ 3.5, 3.8 so far in my third year and am will likely maintain this until I finish), but I'm just not at all sure if I could keep up at the expected pace and not flunk out along with tending to other duties such as research and teaching assistant. With all the studying I do everyday to keep up with the material, I easily average anywhere from 6-7 hours per day. I rarely have any time to do anything else throughout the school year, and couldn't possibly imagine taking on other duties such as teaching and doing research simultaneously.

Basically, how can one be sure that they could survive graduate school before actually going? I don't want to expend so much time and effort only to find out graduate school isn't for me. Should I start considering other options at this point?

 

[ModusPwnd]

You should always consider other options, but what do you have to lose by going to grad school for a year or two and seeing how you do?

BTW, I did wash out of grad school and had to leave with only a MS.

 

[JaredEBland]

I'm in my third year as well, and this past semester the professors at my small college did a little question and answer panel on grad school. The advice one of the professors gave was to avoid graduate school unless it offered the only career you want. For instance, I would like to become a physics professor, I have little choice but to go through with it.

I know people who were not especially talented and they are doing well in graduate programs, yet I have whom loath their first year of graduate studies. I can only speak through the experiences of others, but the people I know seem to adjust to it well enough, they also take 3 classes per semester rather than 4-6 (depending on your school and personal load).

 

[Choppy]

Unfortunately there is not test that will tell you unequivocally whether you will be successful in graduate school (other than actually attending).

For what it's worth, if it's just the workload that concerns you, spend some time really looking into the programs that you want to attend. In the system I went through, there wasn't a lot of pressure to do research while we were completing our course work. We were expected to chose a project, do some preliminary reading, and put together a project outline, but otherwise we were free to concentrate on course work and teaching. Other programs were different, I'm sure.

 

[Matrix0]

I understand your concerns about graduate school and the demands it may bring. It is important to carefully consider your options and make a decision that is best for you. It is normal to have doubts and second thoughts about any major life decision, especially one as significant as pursuing graduate school.

Firstly, I want to assure you that your grades are not the only factor that determines your success in graduate school. While they are important, other qualities such as time management, dedication, and perseverance are also crucial. It is clear that you have a strong work ethic and determination, as evident by your GPA and the amount of time you dedicate to studying. These are valuable qualities that will serve you well in graduate school.

In terms of balancing research and teaching assistant duties, it is important to remember that graduate school is a learning experience. You will have mentors and colleagues who will support and guide you along the way. It is also common for graduate students to have a heavy workload, but it is manageable with effective time management and prioritization. Additionally, many graduate programs offer resources and support for students to help them balance their responsibilities.

In regards to your question about being sure if you can survive graduate school before actually going, it is difficult to predict with absolute certainty. However, it is important to remember that graduate school is a time for growth and development. You will be challenged and pushed out of your comfort zone, but that is where growth happens. It is normal to have doubts and fears, but it is important to have confidence in yourself and your abilities. It may be helpful to speak with current graduate students or alumni to gain a better understanding of their experiences and how they managed their workload.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue graduate school is a personal one and should be based on your own goals, interests, and capabilities. It is important to carefully consider all options and weigh the potential benefits and challenges. If you are still unsure, you may want to explore other options and opportunities in your field before making a final decision. Whatever you choose, know that you have the potential to succeed and that your hard work and determination will pay off in the end.