lital

Hey - this is a tough one. I think the answer depends on a few points that we don't know (but you might!): 1 - Would they keep the place for you for next year if you postpone? 2 - The ability to make money while pursuing the degree. (do they hire RAs? TAs? How much do they pay them? You can take part time jobs etc.) Try to estimate how much you will be able to make. 3 - Expenses: Will you be able to live at your parents'? Will you spend on rent? How much? Other expenses? 4 - The likelihood you will be able to secure a scholarship for next year: Are you a foreign applicant (opens a few scholarship options, closes some). Are there any scholarships from other places? I'd speak with current students in the program to find out what the options are. 5 - How much will you make after grad-school? If you were going to a law-school and expect to make 160/year after that it's one story. If you'll be in a lab,it will be hard to return the money. Estimate realistically your earning potential for the years following graduation. Good luck... Lital

It's a great question. I was surprised by my application package... Yes - my own. Because you need to present yourself in a certain way in the application process, and at some point you look back and - "Hey, this IS me! At least one appearance of me. And it's pretty cool!" I found this reveailng, because in my attempt to run ahead I rarely have the chance to look back and relect on myself. Which is also why I like this question - another opportunity to do that. Lital (LLM, SJD, founder of gradtrain).