Navigating Career Decisions Post-Internship: Should I Share My Plans with My Manager?

As my internship approaches its conclusion, I find myself at a crossroads regarding my future education and career trajectory. This situation has become quite the conundrum, and I believe it’s worth sharing with you all in hopes of gaining some insights.

Background of My Situation

Having recently completed my undergraduate degree, I was excited to begin my journey toward a master’s degree this fall. I had successfully secured a spot in my preferred graduate program and registered for classes, which naturally came with a hefty tuition bill. Everything seemed to be falling into place—until I began my spring internship earlier this year.

This internship was designed to complement my academic journey, reinforcing the common practice of balancing education with practical experience. However, as I delve deeper into the internship and the unpredictable nature of the current job market becomes more evident, I’ve started to reconsider my immediate plans.

A New Direction

The job market has prompted me to rethink my strategy. Instead of diving directly into graduate studies, I’ve decided to defer my admission for at least a year. This decision has been supported by the university, but the shift leaves me with an important question: should I inform my manager about this change?

Alongside this internal debate, an exciting opportunity has arisen. I have received a job offer for a position starting in September. This development puts additional pressure on my decision; I worry about turning down a solid job offer and potentially facing unemployment.

The Challenge of Transparency

For some time now, I have been informing my colleagues and supervisors that I would continue my educational journey this year. However, the constant act of maintaining this façade has become burdensome. The only scenario that might entice me to pursue my master’s degree this fall is if I were able to secure a return offer from my current internship, specifically on a different team that aligns more closely with my interests.

Unfortunately, the likelihood of this happening seems slim, as that team hasn’t brought on new hires in the past two years. Still, the desire for this pathway remains strong.

Seeking Guidance

Now, I stand at a pivotal juncture: should I disclose my decision to defer grad school to my manager? Furthermore, would it be appropriate to inquire about potential opportunities for a return offer within the other team I find appealing?

Navigating this situation requires careful consideration, as transparency with my manager could foster trust and open new doors. However, I also recognize the potential