Navigating Career Decisions: Should You Inform Your Manager About Deferring Grad School?
As I approach the conclusion of my internship, I’ve found myself wrestling with an important decision: Should I disclose to my manager that I won’t be returning to school this fall?
Let me provide some context to my predicament. I recently completed my undergraduate program and was eagerly preparing to embark on my graduate studies this autumn. I secured admission to my preferred university and even finalized my class schedule, complete with a hefty tuition fee.
Earlier this spring, I began an internship that aligns with my expectations of transitioning into graduate school. It’s a common norm for students to participate in internships while enrolled, so I committed to that path wholeheartedly. However, the current job market has prompted me to reevaluate my options. After much deliberation, I’ve decided to defer my graduate studies for at least one year. The institution has approved my request, recognizing the challenging landscape ahead.
Compounding my anxiety is a job offer I’ve received that would commence this September—a position I am seriously considering as a safety net against potential unemployment. To complicate matters, I have portrayed my plans to peers and mentors as if I am still intent on starting graduate school this fall, which has been a challenging juggling act of honesty and expectation.
At this juncture, my only motivation to pursue my graduate studies this year would hinge on receiving an offer for a different team within my current internship that has sparked my interest. Unfortunately, the likelihood of this happening is slim, considering the team in question hasn’t onboarded anyone in the past two years due to its lean structure.
Now, I’m faced with a significant choice: Should I communicate my decision to defer grad school to my manager? Moreover, is it appropriate to inquire about potential opportunities for a return offer in the team I find most appealing?
These questions weigh heavily on my mind as I consider the implications of honesty versus strategic career planning. I’d love to hear insights from others who have navigated similar crossroads. How did you approach the conversation with your manager, and what factors influenced your decisions? Share your experiences in the comments!
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