Good morning.... i am currently unsure if i should pursue a masters degree ?
I have completed my chemical engineering degree and I can't seem to find a job. I have been applying from the beginning of my last academic year and have no success. I currently have a lot of family issues and during my undergrad studies it was a bit much to handle none the less I have managed to complete. I was hoping to find a job so that I could be come independent and find my own home and start living a more peaceful and happier lifestyle...however I could not find a job. I was considering to do masters as I heard that it could potentially help you to get a job but it could take up to 2 years which I am not too comfortable with considering I am not happy living at home. Doing masters will keep me busy and they have said that they will be able to pay me some allowance up to R4000 . I just don't know if I should consider it. #engineering #career-planning #psychologists #undecided
4 answers
Greg’s Answer
Hey, I have the same problem years ago when I graduated. I was in electrical engineering and I could not find an engineering job for at least six months. I decided to take a second shift job as a supervisor at a foundry. It was not what I wanted, but I did have an opportunity to use some of the skills I had learned in school. I kept looking for the "right" job and almost a year later I found the perfect job for me as an engineer managing a new product line. So, hang in there on the job search and maybe take something a little less than ideal if you think it can be a stepping stone. I decided to get my MBA 15 years later and it was a great decision. I highly encourage further education but you have to weigh out what works best on the timing.
Nancy’s Answer
Ideally pursuit of an advanced degree is about more than getting away from home. The subject matter should enhance your skills and expertise in an area you want to pursue. It is a very large commitment. Perhaps ramp up your networking to pursue a job that may not be your ideal, but will be a stepping stone to figuring out where you really belong. An income may help you get out of your home situation so you can focus on developing yourself and clarifying a career plan.
Andrea’s Answer
Sometimes landing that first job can take a while. The question is what can you do until that job opportunity arises? If you are under 8 mths from graduation I would continue the job search. If it's been more than 8mths I would consider getting my Masters not as a distraction from home life but because it is a differentiator between you and someone that doesn't have it. It will separate you from your classmates and others in the job search.