Ask Deb: Should I go back to school?
Hi Deb:
I was laid off from my job of the last five years. It has been over 10 months, and I still do not have a full-time role. I’m beginning to think that maybe I should go back to school for my law degree. I am nearly 30, single, and don’t really relish the idea of going to school full time, but my parents think it’s a good idea. What are your thoughts?
Thanks,
Julia
Dear Julia:
These are challenging times all around for both employers and job seekers. I understand how, particularly at your (young!) age, how going back to school would seem like a logical alternative to remaining among the unemployed. I am not of a mind to outwardly dissuade anyone from continuing their education, but the tone of your letter gives me pause. You say that your parents think this is a good idea, but it’s not one you embrace. Law school is an enormous undertaking, both in terms of time and expense. And although a law degree has broad applicability in terms of your career, it is by no means a guarantee of employment. My advice to anyone considering returning to school to pursue a graduate degree can be broken down as follows:
Number one, and the most important thing, is for you to run the ROI before you enroll in any program. What are the job prospects? Is the advanced degree something that’s in high demand? Will the advanced degree be an attribute or a liability?
Consider the expense. Chances are that Mom and Dad aren’t going to be footing the bill for your graduate education. ALL graduate education is pricey, and when you’re talking about law school or programs in STEM, you could be looking at hundreds of thousands of dollars for the degree.
Vet the quality of the program. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of unaccredited programs out there. Most of these cost just as much as accredited programs. If you’re going for an MBA, it is not critical that you have a degree from a Top Twenty program. However, your degree must be AASCB accredited. Do not bother with ANY program that is not properly accredited. It will be a poor investment of your time and your money.
Most importantly, do YOU want to go back to earn this degree? And what do you plan to do with it? Many people who hold law degrees do not work for law firms, nor do they practice as attorneys. There are many options for a JD outside the practice of law. But getting that degree, especially when you are older than the typical student, is a huge commitment. So choose wisely. Do what is best for you.
All my best,
Deb