Should I go to graduate school for statistics or start working right away?

[mynameisfunk]

is graduate school for me??

Hi guys,
I'm a senior undergraduate currently at a large state university. In the spring I will be graduating with 2 bachelors, one in economics minor in business and another in statistics with a minor in mathematics. I have been planning for a while now to attend the master's program here and getting my master's in either biostatistics or mathematical statistics. Now, I have a grandmaster plan- get the F out of the country 3 years post graduation from graduate school. My goal: my significant other and I to save $100-150,000 and move to Ecuador and starting a permaculture farm. I LOVE math and statistics. But hell, I don't need to go to graduate school to fulfill that dirty pleasure. Honestly, I just want to get paid- Alot and quickly. I can be perfectly content in the mountainous rainforest with some math books and a chessboard eating off my own land. Anyway, I digress, do you guys think I am better off attaining my goal by going out into the workforce ASAP and saying no thanks to graduate school? Or do I go for it and make dat money, honey?

P.S. I also will have a certification for SAS programming with my degree.

 

[phyzguy]

If your goal is to make money, get out into the work force and start making money. Going to graduate school will just delay getting started. My opinion.

 

[Pengwuino]

Do you have any real ideas on what kind of job you can actually get that will allow you to get paid "alot and quickly" with BS's in those fields? Or how a graduate degree would help that?

 

[mynameisfunk]

I know I won't get paid THAT much, but I am planning on living very inexpensively as I have managed for the last 4 years, and doing a couple summer internships to boost my attractiveness to employers. Also, there are 2 of us saving money for this cause. This is definitely doable as long as we don't get slammed by the hyperinflation first. I just don't know which plan will get me there more quickly...

 

[rezeew]

I cannot make a decision for you on whether or not graduate school is the right path for you. However, I can provide some information and considerations that may help you make your decision.

Firstly, graduate school in statistics can open up many opportunities for you in terms of career advancement and higher paying jobs. With a master's degree, you may have access to more specialized and higher-level positions in industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology. Additionally, having a graduate degree can increase your earning potential in the long term.

On the other hand, starting to work right away can also have its advantages. You can gain valuable work experience, develop practical skills, and start earning money sooner. This could also potentially help you save up for your future plans in Ecuador.

It's also important to consider your long-term career goals and how graduate school may align with them. If you have a passion for statistics and see yourself pursuing a career in that field, then graduate school may be a good option for you. However, if your main goal is to save money and start a permaculture farm, then working right away may be a better choice.

Additionally, think about the financial aspect of graduate school. It is important to research the cost of the program, potential scholarships or financial aid, and the potential return on investment in terms of future earnings.

Lastly, consider your personal preferences and priorities. Do you enjoy the academic environment and see yourself thriving in a graduate program? Or do you prefer hands-on work and practical experience? It's important to choose a path that aligns with your strengths and interests.

In conclusion, there is no right or wrong answer to whether or not you should go to graduate school for statistics or start working right away. It ultimately depends on your individual goals, preferences, and priorities. Consider all factors carefully and make a decision that feels right for you.