A few months ago, two young men approached me in my office, requesting a recommendation letter for postgraduate studies abroad. They happened to be doing their national service at my workplace and had been with us for less than three months. Since I had not worked directly with them and was unfamiliar with their skills or expertise, I was going to decline but took the opportunity to engage them in a conversation. I inquired about their motivation for pursuing postgraduate training; they responded that an opportunity had arisen, prompting their desire to apply. The existence of the opportunity was what primarily drove their desire to embark on postgraduate training. A rationale that may not be adequate to embark on postgraduate training.

I have interacted with many postgraduate students, and their primary motivation for pursuing the postgraduate program is often to increase their income. If financial gain is the sole reason for embarking on this journey, it may be worth reassessing your goals. Chasing higher earnings alone this way can lead to dissatisfaction, as increased income often brings lifestyle inflation and greater financial commitments. Instead, focus on solving meaningful challenges—financial rewards of relatively greater measure will naturally follow. Income is a byproduct of creating value and making a meaningful impact.

Pursuing a Master’s or PhD represents a significant decision that can influence your career trajectory, intellectual development, and personal growth. While graduate studies provide access to specialized knowledge, research opportunities, and potential career advancement, they also demand considerable time, financial resources, and perseverance.

Consider working or interning in various settings—such as research, academia, or industry—to enhance your skills, gain experience, and discover your interests before committing to postgraduate training. Exposure to different organizations can provide valuable insights and help you clarify your long-term goals.

Below are a few tips for consideration as you contemplate a postgraduate degree.

📍Clarify the ‘Why’

• Why do you want to embark on postgraduate training?

• What challenges do you wish to address?

• Do you need an advanced degree for your career aspirations?

• Will a Master’s or PhD significantly enhance job prospects?

• Will you be able to gain the needed skills through work experience or short courses instead?

📍 Evaluate Your Passion for Research

Postgraduate training, particularly a PhD, is highly research-intensive and best suited for those with a genuine passion for solving complex problems in a specific field. It requires self-motivation, curiosity, and the ability to work independently on long-term projects. If you enjoy reading academic papers, designing experiments, and analyzing data, a PhD may be a fulfilling path for you.

📍 Choosing a Supervisor

I understand that this process may be daunting and especially nearly impossible for students who are assigned supervisors. However, it’s important to seek out a supportive supervisor who can enhance your graduate experience—someone with expertise in your research area and a strong track record of successfully mentoring students. Connecting with current and former students can provide valuable insights into their experiences with the supervisor and the program.

📍Financial Implications

Graduate school is a significant investment, and therefore counting the cost and planning is key. While some programs offer funding, others require self-financing. Explore scholarship and grant opportunities early. Carefully assess whether you can cover tuition, living expenses, and research costs, especially if the program is not funded. If you plan to pursue a PhD, securing funding or scholarship is crucial, as doctoral training requires a substantial financial commitment.

📍 Commitment and Workload

Graduate studies demand long hours of work, resilience, and persistence. A Master’s degree typically takes 1–3 years, though it may take longer if pursued part-time. A PhD can range from 3–7 years, depending on the research scope. Expect intensive reading, writing, and independent research. It’s also important to plan how you will balance graduate training with other life responsibilities, such as family, work, and personal commitments. Be fully prepared for the commitment before embarking on this journey.

Pursuing a PhD or Master’s is not a race or competition—choose the path that aligns with your aspirations, circumstances, and long-term growth.

Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section✨️