Applying to Grad School Just to Keep Options Open?

<p>Has anyone thought of applying to a graduate school just to keep their options open? I wouldn't want to go at this time unless I couldn't find a job, or they gave me a full ride or something. (not likely as my GPA is only a little above average)</p>

<p>Should I fill out some applications just so I have a choice later next year? I'm graduating Spring 2008 with an A.E. degree, and would want to go to grad school for aviation safety or aircraft structures, or both somehow.</p>

<p>The cost for applications and the GRE, along with time of doing both seems like a lot to deal with. Is it worth it to have the option, or should I just forget about it since I'm not all that interested at this time?</p>

<p>Also, for engineering it doesn't seem like another degree gives you that much of an edge unless you want to go into management. Opinions?</p>

<p>If you can get into grad school you can probably find a job. If you aren't interested, don't apply. Have you not done any internships or anything like that?</p>

<p>Either way, don't a lot of companies give offers by the end of the calendar year before you graduate (so you'd probably know by ~Dec. 07)?</p>

<p>I haven't done any internships, but I've done a few research projects. Thanks for the input...just not wanting to miss any steps my senior year!</p>

<p>By the way, when do most seniors actually begin in fill out job apps? Fall semester? I know our Career Fair is then, but I wanted to make sure it isn't too early as when I've been looking at job postings it seems they want someone right away.</p>

<p>I'd really like to find a job as early as possible to plan the move, and so my boyfriend can find a job in the same area. =)</p>

<p>Typically the fall semester. While some companies would like you to work part time before you graduate, it's by no means a requirement. Starting dates are almost always negotiable unless the company has a ridiculous workload. I know quite a few people who graduate in May and don't begin work until late August. Of course, they won't mind if you want to start right away.</p>