To grad school or not to grad school?

In summary, Daniel, an undergraduate astrophysics student at CU Boulder, is seeking advice on whether to pursue a graduate degree or jump into the private space industry after graduation. He is advised to research job listings and qualifications for his desired career path, as well as to study the backgrounds of successful individuals in the industry. Additionally, he is reminded to consider whether his degree aligns with the needs of companies in the private space industry.
  • #1
DLOBE
1
0
Hi guys,
Im Daniel, I am currently an undergraduate astrophysics student at CU Boulder.
Just coming into my junior year now and I've begun thinking about grad school.

My current career goal is to join the upcoming private space industry. I was hoping
to get some advice about what to do after my undergraduate degree. Whether I should
pursue a graduate degree or not or just jump into the industry and begin working.
Any suggestions or advice would be highly appreciated.

Thanks, D
 
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  • #2
The best advice I could give you is to start looking at job listings for the kind of jobs you would ideally see yourself in 10 years from now. For their requirements, are they looking with people with undergrad degrees, or with grad degrees?
 
  • #3
Also, get Physics Today and various magazines like that. Get the issue where it shows the jobs that recent grads have gotten. Find people who have gotten jobs you like the sound of. Find out what degree from what school. This gives you some shiny targets.
 
  • #4
DLOBE said:
Hi guys,
Im Daniel, I am currently an undergraduate astrophysics student at CU Boulder.
Just coming into my junior year now and I've begun thinking about grad school.

My current career goal is to join the upcoming private space industry.

Obviously, you must know something about these "private space industry". So the question you need to ask and find out yourself is (i) how much of a job opening is there, or will there be in such a sector and (ii) what kinds of people are they looking for?

Do you even know if they are looking for "astrophysicists"? Does a company like Space X need someone with that degree, or are they looking for engineers? After all, they are nothing more than a transportation company at this moment. Do they even care about "dark matter" and cosmology?

You have other equally important questions to answer beyond just whether you should go to grad school or not.

Zz.
 

1. Should I go to grad school immediately after completing my undergraduate degree?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and circumstances. Grad school can be a great option if you are passionate about a specific field and want to gain specialized knowledge and skills. It can also be a good choice if you are interested in pursuing a career in academia or research. However, if you are unsure about your career goals or need a break from academics, it may be beneficial to take some time off before pursuing graduate studies.

2. How do I know if grad school is right for me?

Grad school requires a significant time and financial commitment, so it is important to carefully consider if it aligns with your goals and interests. Some factors to consider include your career aspirations, academic strengths, and personal motivation. It may also be helpful to speak with current grad students and professionals in your desired field to gain insight into the experience and potential career opportunities.

3. What are the benefits of going to grad school?

Grad school can provide numerous benefits, including advanced knowledge and skills in a specific field, increased job opportunities and earning potential, and networking opportunities with professionals in your chosen field. It can also be a valuable experience for personal growth and development.

4. What are the drawbacks of going to grad school?

Some potential drawbacks of grad school include the financial burden of tuition and living expenses, the time commitment and potential impact on work-life balance, and the competitive nature of some programs. It is important to carefully weigh these factors and determine if the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks for your individual situation.

5. Can I get a job without a graduate degree?

While a graduate degree may provide a competitive edge in certain fields, it is not always necessary to obtain a job. Many industries value practical experience and skills, and there may be alternative education or training options that can help you gain the necessary qualifications for your desired career. It is important to research the job market and requirements in your desired field to determine if a graduate degree is necessary for your career goals.

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