From Undergrad to Grad

Navigating the Transition Into the Next Frontier of Academics

By Jonah Cole, Staff Writer

For some, tossing their cap in the air at graduation represents the end of their academic careers.

However, for other students, obtaining an undergraduate degree is simply the first step in a lengthy scholarly career. That is because, for many students, the next phase is graduate school.

“I am in an industry where education is key,” said Matthew Bilello, a first-year graduate student in Lynn University’s aviation management program. “Lynn offers me the best access to that education, along with access to local airfields, which is so crucial.”

The journey to obtain a master’s degree is not for the faint of heart. Due to the advanced nature of the coursework, the class material’s difficulty increases proportionally. Despite this, many students openly embrace the challenge.

“Graduate school has provided me with the ability to be challenged more and pushes me to be more determined,” said Kayla Waugh, a graduate student obtaining her master’s in clinical mental health counseling at Lynn. “I believe it provokes me to want to accomplish more.”

For both Bilello and Waugh, obtaining a master’s degree is not just ideal but essential for their career goals. However, for Bilello, it also serves as a failsafe.

“I’m training to be a pilot along with studying aviation management,” explained Bilello. “If something happens to me medically where I can’t be a pilot anymore, my aviation management degree will allow me to stay in the industry for as long as I want.”

College students sometimes feel pressured by parents or a competitive job market to attend graduate school. However, Waugh insists that patience is key.

“Individuals should spend time reflecting on themselves and the decision towards if graduate school is for them or not,” advised Waugh. “Also, a piece of advice that can go a long way is to stay open-minded.”

Graduate school may not be for everyone; however, if a student is willing to put in the hours and enjoys a good challenge, the rewards can certainly be worth the effort.