How do I decide between pursuing graduate school and entering the workforce after I complete my undergraduate degree?
This is a really hard question. For some, the answer will be obvious—there will be a clear pathway and desire. For many of us, the question is harder. Graduate school is a big commitment. For psychology programs, gaining experience in research labs can help you to determine whether this is something you might want to do for a long period of time. Many students take a year to work and “test drive” their skills before determining whether they want to, or need, to pursue further training to enter into careers that meet their goals. Talking with a trusted mentor, academic advisor, family, and friends can be helpful as you identify potential pathways. Sometimes, it is a leap into the unknown. This is okay! Most people have twists and turns in their career journeys. Just because you decide to (not) pursue further training right now, doesn’t mean you can’t go back and pursue it later.
If you are thinking of taking time to pursue a job, but want to hold the door open for future training, one strategy you might use is to ask about letters of reference before you graduate. Specifically, you can let your potential referees know that you are taking time to pursue an opportunity, but that you might want to pursue further training in the future. You can ask if they would be willing to serve as a reference for you at that time. Assuming they say yes, when you are ready to apply, respond to that email where they agreed! Referees often know a lot of people and write a lot of references. Doing a friendly “bump” from that that earlier email, reminding them of who you are and your past connections, can help to reactivate the foundation you laid before pursuing your other opportunity.
