How to realistically pay for grad school? [Master of Public Health; has $57k+ debt from undergraduate]

I know several young adults with MPH degrees as their only graduate degree …and they have very successful careers.

But…

I do not think you should do this right now. I think you should get a job and save your money. Grad school will always be there.

My daughter is in grad school now. She graduated with her BS and spent 4 years working before heading back to school. She saved a lot of money during this time (it can be done). You asked if scholarships are given to grad students who are at a “later age.” The answer is yes- my daughter got one as did one of her peers who is older than my daughter.

Take a deep breath, find a job that you think you would enjoy, and put grad school on the back burner for the next 2-3 years. By then you will be in a better position to analyze your situation, and your work experience will provide transferable skills and experiences that grad schools value. Additionally, you may decide to get a different degree or possibly get some financial help from an employer.

FYI: My D’s previous employer would have paid for an MPH if she had stayed.

Good luck!

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