Second thoughts about graduate school

[yenachem]

I have been getting overwhelming thoughts of doubt lately. I will be taking out school loans and giving up 2 years of my life for a masters degree. I keep thinking what if I went into a different field or did something else. What if the field I'm entering is not for me?! I think I'm pretty capable of doing a lot of different things. I don't want to waste time doing something I won't be happy in. Anyone else feel doubt?

[Derfasciti]

I think feeling doubt is pretty common. I feel doubt insofar as I'm worried that I will not be capable or smart enough to survive my MA program. What I would suggest is to do some soul searching. What other jobs can you envision yourself doing? What is most important to you - money or your "dreams" (assuming your dream is the MA). I would not rush to any decisions. Instead, don't think about it for a while. Do one of your favorite hobbies and relax for a few days. Then get to seriously considering your options. I'm not sure about the job prospects for your field - as a historian, they're pretty bleak and I've been beaten over the head with the whole "only do it if you KNOW you want to do it" thing. For you, it may not be as bad if you're guaranteed an income afterwards.

I hope some of this was helpful.

[thesnout]

I agree with Derfasciti. Don't think about grad school for a while. I was having some doubts myself. I have to take out loans for 1st year (non-bank) but oh well. You need to get your mind off of grad school for at least a week or two. If you are still having doubts then it might be a good time to reconsider your options.

You applied to grad school for a reason though. Don't give up due to doubt. Just give it time to sink in a little. You got accepted so feel good about it.

Good luck.