<p>I noticed a lot of people tend to go to grad school right after college, but for me, it was not an option (was too burnt out / had personal issues / just wanted to make money), so I did not go right away. Now that I am a bit more directed and have some decisions to make, what were peoples experiences going back to grad school after a few years in the 'real world'? Did you have any problems with getting recommendations or even finding places that were willing to take you in? I'm just kind of putting feelers out there right now, so don't read too much into it. Thanks.</p>
<p>I went back to grad school (MBA) 6 years after undergrad. (Of course having real life work experience is a real plus/required for most MBA programs.) I had recommendations from execs at work, and a college professor I was still in touch with. I really didn’t have any trouble getting back into the studying routine – I was spending my own money on grad school, and I knew it was what I wanted to do. In other words, I was motivated! Good luck.</p>
<p>I went about 4 and a half years after undergrad. Having done research after undergrad made me dramatically more competitive when applying for schools than if I had applied right after college. My recommendations all came from the people I worked with, I didn’t even bother trying to reach back to college professors or anything.</p>
<p>Excellent. I figured I could get stuff from work supes (though my first two jobs did not go well… again, personal issues – current job is gangbusters though) and I fell out of contact with people. I could also try pulling a Chris Guillebeau and write to the places I want to go and be like: “You are the only place I want to attend, you have the best program in my desired field of interest, and if you’d like, I’d kiss your butt and call it ice cream if you take me.” 
It worked for him!</p>