When should I graduate from college? Considering grad school and other factors

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In summary, the person is in their senior year of college and is unsure of when to graduate. They are interested in going to grad school for applied math but have a heavy course load in their final year, including important math classes and a paper they hope to publish. They are considering either graduating on time and applying to grad school or pushing back their graduation by one year to improve their application and potentially participate in an REU. The conversation also discusses the pros and cons of each option and suggests completing everything as soon as possible.
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freefall111
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Help me decide when to graduate

So my situation is a little odd and I'm having trouble on deciding when to graduate from college. I'm going into my senior year at a mid level public university with an okay gpa (cumulative 3.5, math 3.6) interested in going to grad school for applied math.

Because I decided on my major kind of late I'm going to be taking a lot of important math classes this coming year. In specific a two semester Rudin level analysis sequence, algebra sequence, and a few other math electives. I will also be busy finishing up a paper that I hope to have published.

Now the way I see it I have two real options. One I can graduate on time. This would require completing the coursework stated above. Finding time to take and study for the math subject as well as get together LOR's and complete applications for grad school. I'm fairly sure the paper I'm working on would not be anywhere near being published by this point.
I'm also positive this amount of work and stress would have a negative impact on my grades for the semester.

My second option is to push back my graduation one year and do two part time semesters where I take a course each semester. I'd also like to try and do some type of REU next summer although I'm not sure if I'd be eligible as a non-sophomore/junior part-time student. The majors pros for this option would be a potentially better application due to a publication, better grades, and maybe an REU. Although I'm not sure how a grad panel would view this semi gap year.

So if anyone has any thoughts on what they would do if they were in my shoes please share.
 
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If it was me, I'd get it done with ASAP. If the course-load for doing it all in one year is normal, then I'm a big fan of getting work out of the way.

It's a year of your life that we are talking about. If you apply and don't get in, then you can work for a year then apply again if you really want to. And you'd be making money for that year rather than spending it.

It depends if you can afford to spend the cash and the year.
 

FAQ: When should I graduate from college? Considering grad school and other factors

When is the best time to graduate?

The best time to graduate is dependent on various factors such as your academic progress, career goals, financial situation, and personal circumstances. It is recommended to discuss this with your academic advisor to make an informed decision.

Should I graduate early or take extra time to complete my degree?

This decision ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and goals. Graduating early can save you time and money, but it may also mean missing out on valuable experiences and opportunities. Taking extra time to complete your degree may allow you to further develop your skills and knowledge, but it may also delay your entry into the job market. Consider all factors before making a decision.

How will graduating early or late affect my job prospects?

Graduating early or late may not have a significant impact on your job prospects. Employers are more interested in your skills, experience, and qualifications rather than the timing of your graduation. However, it is important to consider the job market and the demand for your skills when making this decision.

How do I know if I am ready to graduate?

To determine if you are ready to graduate, consider your academic performance, completion of all required courses, and any other requirements set by your university. Additionally, evaluate your personal readiness and goals. If you feel confident in your abilities and are ready to move on to the next stage of your career, then you may be ready to graduate.

Can I change my mind after I have decided to graduate?

Yes, you can change your mind after deciding to graduate. However, this may have consequences such as delaying your graduation and affecting your course plans. It is important to carefully consider your decision and consult with your academic advisor before making any changes.

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