Being from a smaller town (just outside of Buffalo, NY), going to a big city like Chicago was quite an experience. It was definitely part of the appeal to go to grad school in the first place, a chance to go somewhere new, meet new people and grow as a person.
I got great advice when I first arrived: Every big city has its small ponds. Look for those and get to know the communities of interest to you. Then a big city becomes much more personable and manageable.
Another interesting thing about my grad school experience is I took a 2-year program and I completed it in 1 year. I attended classes in the summer to make that possible. While it wasn't recommended by the university, they worked with me on it and it saved me a ton of money (loans).
So here are 6 reasons you should consider graduate school, regardless of where you are in your life:
You probably noticed that not all undergrad students were so keen on the learning part of the college experience. But in grad school, everyone is serious about being there for a reason: to study and to learn. Soak that up and you'll find it a productive environment.
By branching out to a new city, you'll find chances to network and land internships and other opportunities that you won't find if you stay where you're at.
It looks impressive to have gone to graduate school and it can give you a leg up to the competition you'll face in the real world.
The networking opportunities alone truly make grad school worth it, whether it be professors or fellow students.
Yes, you're spending money, but you're also giving yourself time to contemplate what you want to do next in your life. Whether it's uncertainty after undergrad or you're ready to chart a new direction years later, grad school is valuable time to figure out that next step.
And this may be the best reason of all. It'll be challenging but that's the point - challenge yourself and you'll be much better off for it.
So think about it! It may not be for everyone, but it could be for you. It certainly was helpful for me to grow as a young man and opened up awesome career opportunities, including the chance to move to NYC and work there for 3 and a half years.
For the longest time, we sat around in our apartment weekend after weekend doing absolutely nothing. That is until we realized there's a whole other world right outside of our windows, and it's actually affordable!
Here is a complete list of inexpensive things to do around LA. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's a ton of different things to enjoy.
The perfect place to visit this season. The Flower Fields located in Carlsbad, are open to the public every year! The last day to visit them is May 8th. Entrance is $14, and they're open daily from 9-6.
On the second Sunday of every month, take a trip to the Rose Bowl Flea Market for some great finds!
Probably one of the coolest bookstores in LA. Tons of interesting book structures and architecture, and amazing art on display. Located on Spring Street, in Downtown LA.
Check out this museum's serial killer exhibit. Located on Hollywood BLVD, open from 11AM - 8PM. Admission is $15.
A very unique place to explore. Tons of beautiful graffiti, Located in San Pedro.
Located on Wilshire BLVD, and admission is free! This summer they are hosting "Made in LA", an exhibition featuring LA based artists.
Another awesome flea market, Located on Melrose Avenue every Sunday.
