Michael Braun's Blog

What with the economy on increasingly shaky grounds, I’m predicting a change in graduate school applicants. This change will put qualified candidates in a very good light and should increase chances of entrance for well-qualified candidates, especially those with high grades, test scores, and experience.

Here’s why.

1. Working folks unlikely to make jump.
People working in a secure job are unlikely to leave it. Why would they leave? They are unlikely to find a better job somewhere else, with fewer jobs available and more applicants. Collecting a paycheck is a good thing in these economic times. And in general, those who feel like they are currently winning are likely to work to secure their gains rather than take risks that might lead to losses. This should reduce the number of currently working individuals who apply for graduate programs. Those plotting an eventual return to school are more likely to keep working, save money, and apply when the economy improves.

2. College grads unlikely to enter the job market.
Those graduating this December and next May are likely to face a difficult hiring climate. These new graduates will likely have less experience than their competition. For this reason, further schooling seems like a secure choice. And so while applications for graduate schools may increase among these individuals, they should not represent competition for a well-qualified candidate with some years away from school.

So, if you are well-qualified and looking to return to school, there is no time like the present!