Spring 2009 Ottawa University graduate Emily Loughary said she made her decision to go to graduate school at the last minute, but she is glad she made that decision.
Loughary said she has friends who are seeking jobs, but cannot seem to land a job in this economy.’ She feels her internship and position in school currently put her in the right position.
‘ According to gradschools.com, internships often turn into jobs and 52 percent of students in graduate school receive and accept job offers before they graduate.
‘ Currently at Kansas State University, Loughary is working on her Masters of Business Administration. She said the economy had an impact on her decisions when choosing a graduate program.’ ‘Going to school in state or out of state was a big decision because of cost,’ Loughary said.
‘ Susan Webb, director of career services and student employment, said she has had many students in her office interested in furthering their education with graduate school, law school or medical school.’
‘ However, she said the state of the economy hasn’t been brought up as an issue by any students looking at a higher education.
‘ ‘Most students I talk to already know they want to go to graduate school, the economy may or may not be a factor,’ Webb said.
‘ Zach Schultz, senior math major, has been looking at Washburn University and the University of Kansas to pursue a law degree.’ ‘The economy hasn’t impacted my decision. I want to go regardless,’ Schultz said.
‘ Even though he is looking at law school, Schultz said he is keeping his future job options open.’
‘ ‘Going to law school doesn’t mean I have to be a lawyer, but it makes me more marketable,’ Schultz said.
‘ Many graduate programs, law schools and medical schools require entrance tests such as the GRE, GMAT, MKAT and LSAT.’ Webb said students interested in furthering their education should consult with their advisors and visit her office for information.
‘ Webb said she encourages students to apply to a variety of schools, including schools that a student may not think they could get in to.
‘ ‘Programs are looking for diverse groups of students but you never know what that group is going to be.’ Students may fit into a group and not know it, so my advice is to shoot for the stars,’ Webb said.
‘ Loughary said she encourages students to research schools and take entrance tests early to help save time when application deadlines are approaching.’ She said she still is looking into law school and is passionate about getting a good education.
‘ ‘I wasn’t ready to be done with my education; I knew I had a lot of potential that could be used,’ Loughary said.
‘