‘tis the season for graduate school application advice.
(Fun fact: The advice is often contradictory. “Reach out for prospective advisors because your relationship with your PI is the most important predictor of your success.” “Don’t email professors before applying; we don’t have time to talk to you.” Ugh.)
I don’t work with folks on application materials, nor do I focus on helping folks through graduate programs. So I tend to keep out of this conversation.
But I do have advice, and it’s advice you’re not likely to get from others on this topic.
Here it is:
By all means apply if you want. (And ask for help. You might get amazing help, even from strangers. Also ask to have application fees waived.)
But between now and enrolling, continue to reflect on the kind of life and career you want, build your network (especially by doing informational interviews), and otherwise explore your career options.
Because here’s the thing: You might be able to build the career and life you want starting right now, without needing to invest tons of time (money, energy) in more education.
Graduate programs aren’t always the solution they market themselves to be.
So go forth, circumspectly.