Navigating Career Choices: Should You Share Your Plans with Your Manager?

As I approach the conclusion of my internship, I’m facing a significant decision that has left me in somewhat of a bind. Having recently graduated, I initially planned to pursue a master’s degree this fall, complete with acceptance from my chosen university and an accompanying tuition bill that looms large.

Earlier this year, I secured a spring internship with the expectation that I would soon return to academia. However, the dynamics of the current job market have prompted me to reconsider my plans. Rather than heading back to school, I’m contemplating deferring my admission for at least another year. The university has graciously agreed to this deferment, which allows me the flexibility to explore job opportunities. In fact, I’ve received an enticing job offer for September, and I’m hesitant to decline it, fearing unemployment if I do.

For the past few months, I’ve been communicating to my peers and supervisors that I would be starting my master’s program this year, and maintaining this facade has been increasingly stressful. At this point, the only scenario in which I would even consider proceeding with my master’s degree is if I were to receive a return offer from my current internship, particularly for a position on a different team that I find intriguing. However, this outcome seems improbable, as the team has been operating without new hires for the past two years.

This leads me to my current dilemma: Should I inform my manager about my decision to defer my graduate studies? Additionally, would it be prudent to inquire about potential opportunities for a return offer within that other team? The stakes are high, and the decision I make could have significant implications for my career path.

Navigating this situation requires careful consideration, and I would appreciate any insights or experiences from others who might have faced a similar crossroads. Would you advise being open with my manager about my plans, or is it better to keep my cards close to my chest as I explore options in this uncertain job market?