The Aftermath of a Graduate Degree
The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.
Socrates
A personal recounting of a Masters degree from a prestigious University.
The aftermath of being admitted to one of the top 17 universities in the USA, according to the U.S. News & World Report (2020 to present), is undoubtedly a significant milestone. However, amidst the jubilation of such an achievement, it's imperative to critically evaluate the broader implications of pursuing higher education, particularly in light of the exorbitant costs associated with it.
The prevailing discourse surrounding the affordability and value of private education has become increasingly contentious, particularly given a longstanding fluctuating state of the American job market, which often fails to adequately compensate individuals for their professional qualifications and intelligence in the face of mounting student debt. This prompts a crucial question: is the pursuit of further education truly worth the investment, especially when weighed against the financial burden it imposes?
In considering how a college education will contribute to achieving one's goals, it's essential to critically assess the tangible benefits against the backdrop of prevailing economic and societal challenges. Was there a social gain of going back to school, or was it just a name recognition for the school attended, designed by a reputable compensation of higher intellect, not especially gained in the two years adhered to in my experience. For instance, the decision to pursue a Masters of Global Affairs, coming from an international production background, necessitates a careful examination of the potential returns on investment, both in terms of career advancement, connections, and financial stability during a pandemic where no effort was granted to meeting any of the above prospects. During this time, while the tuition is non-negotiable, the social exposure apparently is. None of which I can recommend as someone who was acknowledged by a longstanding career on socio-political work, with award nominations working on capital projects and leading diplomatic roles with affiliate governments; resulting in a rewiring of engagement by diversifying industry experience to prove that the ability to apply production and change management is an inevitable constant to the understanding of complexities seen in an international market. Regardless of the sort of industry, its all project management, significant leadership capabilities, and guides of change that decide the script of progress rather than regress. Adhering a wealth of pre-existing experiences and connections, we are intertwined and guided by our social choices, some of which are sprouted by our careers, and can be apparent influences to the art of starting over.
While the chosen field of study might hold intrinsic value in fostering a nuanced understanding of global affairs, mainly learned from peers depending on their backgrounds welcomed into the class subjected, including the complex interplay of brief conversations on industry economics, politics, and culture, it's crucial to acknowledge the broader socioeconomic realities that shape the landscape of higher education and what qualifies a professor to engage at the highest rank of knowledge and cross-examination. Questions regarding the practical applicability of acquired knowledge in an intrinsically competitive and non-reformative job market should not be overlooked. Neither should its cost.
Moreover, the exploration of critical questions pertaining to international development and socio-cultural understanding must be contextualized within the broader framework of systemic inequalities and broader power dynamics. In an era marked by rapid globalization and constant digital intelligence, addressing the gaps in global fabrics of change (in any industry) that does not perpetually exemplify the market it lives in, ruptures a nuanced understanding of the socio-structural barriers that perpetuate social favoritism across diverse industries. This allows a great deal of selectionism to come into play, even if you know nothing – there is always room to learn from those willing to mentor.
The pursuit of higher education should not be isolated from any current organization actively adhering to the economic triangle. Rather, it should serve as a catalyst for meaningful values of change, grounded in a commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue and equitable opportunities for all based on the knowledge, background and experiences that comes into play. None of which where the academic cost should be greater than its actual worth. A debt set to be repaid for thirty years should not exist. Simply for the same reason one lives to work, they should be able to work to live and enjoy the pleasures of a social and familial benefit to a work-life balance in society. One of which heavily recognized in European and Commonwealth statures, and another way of allowing more of a communal presence without the limitations of a title, a status, or a retirement fund that might adhere to the bare minimum after service.
Simply by asking, how would you like to be remembered? Can be a naught on its own, drowned by socially forced duties rather than socially enriched values and purpose.
In light of these considerations, and as I advise those who come to me for guidance on their academic pursuits; the decision to pursue higher education must be informed by a holistic evaluation of its potential impact; personally, financially, and professionally. While the allure of academic achievement is a nice thought, it's essential to weigh the costs and benefits against the backdrop of social trends that are designed to benefit both a personal and public interest, ensuring that the pursuant of an advanced degree, without the graves of debt, should not withhold the ability to have smart conversations, or negate the historical experiences brought forward from other autonomies of academic and cultural contributions brought forward from other countries. The common denominator should remain intellectually accessible for all.
Author: Aïda Eltorie