As I’m about to start my CS Master’s program at a good public school, I’m torn between sticking with my current job and pursuing a new path. My current job at a small government contractor company has been stagnant for three years, with dwindling employees, benefits being cut, and no new contracts. Despite the experience I’ve gained, my income has remained the same at $40k/year.
On the other hand, I’ve been doing great in school and was offered admission to the CS Master’s program at UMD with a financial offer of free tuition plus a stipend. I also got an offer to work for a lab, which could potentially lead to a research position that would cover my tuition.
The question is, should I quit my job to focus on my Master’s degree, hoping it will lead to better career prospects in the future? Or should I stick with the stability of my current job, despite its limitations?
## The Pros of Quitting
– **Focus on education**: By quitting my job, I can dedicate more time and energy to my Master’s program, potentially leading to better grades and a stronger network.
– **New opportunities**: A Master’s degree can open up new career paths and opportunities that may not be available to me with just a Bachelor’s degree.
– **Personal growth**: Pursuing a higher education can be a transformative experience that can help me develop new skills, gain confidence, and discover my passions.
## The Cons of Quitting
– **Financial stability**: Quitting my job means giving up a steady income and benefits, which can be risky, especially in a unpredictable job market.
– **Experience**: By quitting my job, I’ll be giving up the experience and skills I’ve gained over the past three years, which could be valuable in the long run.
– **Uncertainty**: There’s no guarantee that a Master’s degree will lead to better career prospects or a higher salary.
Ultimately, the decision to quit my job for a Master’s degree is a personal one. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider what’s best for my career and personal growth.
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*Further reading: [Should I Quit My Job to Pursue a Master’s Degree?](https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/102015/should-i-quit-my-job-to-pursue-masters-degree.asp)*