MSME- smart move or total blunder?

[DErazorGuy]

You've probably heard this sob story before, but please try to sympathize with my plight. I graduated over 3 years ago (May 2009) with a BSME from a lesser known but still ABET accredited university. After about a year of job searching, a half dozen interviews, and no job offers I decided that I had to find something so I began working at Walmart. Now after two years of it I'm at the end of my rope. I realized I've gotten way to complacent with my situation. I'm not happy. I'm wasting time, I want a change, etc. So I applied and have been accepted to the MSME program of a more well known university. But I am torn as to whether or not this is a smart move. The prospect of student loan debt scares me (I'm not in debt right now), and I don't know if there's any real value in a Master's Degree. I would rather just gain knowledge and experience from actually working in the industry. Too keep it short, I guess I have many questions and few answers. Is Mechanical Engineering a dead profession in this country (U.S.A.)? If not, is it worth the time and money to pursue an advanced degree. If it is, should I consider a related career like a draftsman/CNC programmer? I'm sorry to bombard you with these questions, but any feedback based on your experience would be helpful to me.

 

[R.Mesri]

I can completely relate to your situation. It sounds like you are in a difficult spot and trying to decide what the best path forward is for you. From my experience, I think Mechanical Engineering is still a viable profession in the United States, but it is becoming increasingly competitive as other countries offer similar engineering degrees at lower costs. In addition, technology is rapidly changing the field and many employers are looking for engineers with up-to-date knowledge of the latest technologies. So, I think it could be a wise decision to pursue an advanced degree if you find a program that focuses on the topics that will help you to be successful in the field. In terms of the value of a Master's Degree, I think it depends on the program and the individual. Generally speaking, a Master's Degree can be a great way to gain knowledge and experience in a particular field, which can open doors to future employment opportunities. It can also be a way to demonstrate your commitment to the field and your ability to thrive in a demanding academic environment. Finally, if you're not sure if a Master's Degree is the right choice for you, it might be worth considering a related career such as a draftsman/CNC programmer. This could be a great way to gain experience and knowledge that will be beneficial in the longer term. I hope this helps. Good luck with your decision!