Image via WikipediaToday I want to write about a question that I spend 90% of my mental energy on: What am I going to do after my Masters degree?
I think sharing my ideas on this in the open blog format is best, as it a. fulfills one of the purposes of blogging (personal thoughts) b. fits into one of the categories this blog covers (personal/career development) c. allows others to see what I'm thinking and opens up the discussion (the most successful people seek the most advice, and then they have the edge to act).
Two general tracks are possible to me: more school or the working world. This is going to be a long list...I'm very confused!
1) More School
A. PhD Economic History
Besides this being just plain interesting, I could probably get into a program at Berkeley or Stanford (or an Ivy, but I love California), since this is within the same line as my previous achievements. But do I really want to be a professor? And how about that nice house I promised myself I'd be able to afford. Also, if I go straight to PhD, where do I get the money to finish paying off my prior schooling.
B. PhD Political Economy
Again, extremely interesting. Possibly more access to the kinds of applied careers I'd be interested in than with the Economic History degree. Less of a track record in this, less likely to get into a top program.
C. PhD Economics (probably Development)
Possibly the most access to applied careers that are grounded in the kind of research I am interested in. Does not play particularly well to my track record of achievement - I would have to do some major math coursework somewhere before applying.
D. MS Computer Science
Do I want to do whatever it takes to become a VC? Is this the best path? How dare I attempt to become an expert in tech without knowing how it works under the hood. I think this subject is interesting, and the applications of it even more so. I don't think I want to be an application programmer, though, unless its for my own startup.
2) Working World
A. Investment Banking
Standard path. Good pay, excellent resume item/door opener. Bills paid off fast, and heck, I do enjoy finance! I also enjoy free time :/
B. Private Equity
Well, better than I Banking since I get to be closer to the kinds of investing I am interested in - probably. Pay better, hours similar. Near impossible to get in. May require I banking experience first.
C. Any role in a Start-up
Not doing the work I want to do, but in the industry with which I want to work! The fast track to Venture Capital? Poor pay, job security, hours. Can I really work at a tech company doing something I don't necessarily love for $50,000 when I can grab a banking job doing something closer to my interest (at a micro-level) with $120,000+ up for grabs?
So there you have it. Me + career path = confusion + anguish
Help?!?!
