Confused

[acp12b]

Hello everyone, I'm new to this forum! I'm currently a junior majoring in Political Science and International Affairs. Up until last year, I was set on attending law school, but this year I have seriously questioned whether that's the path I want to take. I've considered getting my masters in International Affairs to hopefully work for an NGO or IGO, and have also started to consider obtaining my PhD in Political Science after speaking to one of my professors who suggested it. My career goals aren't 100% clear to me yet, but in general they are becoming an attorney specializing in international law (part of why I want an MA in IA since law school doesn't offer much on international law) or working for an NGO or IGO. I've been told that a masters program is a waste of money, but why exactly do people say that? I'm having a hard time distinguishing which program would be best for me with my career goals.

Also, I worry about my resume. I've been a rather boring and passive undergrad and my GPA is only a 3.2. I've read that without research experience, my chances for grad school are really hurt.

[cooperstreet]

Get a PhD if you want to become an academic.

 

Don't get a PhD if you don't want to become an academic.

[esotericish]

If you want to work in the NGO world, go get internships. They're all very competitive, but it's the only way to get a start. An MA might help with that, but you will be in school for 2 additional years that you could have put towards starting a career. And you will likely be in debt.

 

Seriously, don't get an MA if you want to work for an NGO. Go get internships.

[esotericish]

Ditto the above. I would also recommend just working somewhere in the nonprofit world. A lot of international-oriented NGOs are VERY competitive, but a lot of people come from other nonprofits because it's a similar skillset needed and people who hire at NGOs recognize that.