<p>I am going to become a senior in high school and am planning to major in psychology in college. I was also planning to go to grad school to get my master's in I/O Psychology. I've read many things about how it is best to get a PhD in I/O Psychology if I want to pursue this career but I'm not entirely sure if it is absolutely necessary for this particular career. I am sure about going straight to a master's program after getting my bachelor's to finish earlier BUT (if a PhD is best) I am not sure if I should go into PhD program DIRECTLY after getting my master's. My concern is being able to pay off student loans. Is it better to go to a PhD program soon after getting a master's to get done with school earlier? Or is it better to take time out of school after earning a master's to make money to pay off student loan and THEN returning to school for a PhD after several years? Also any tips on how to pay off student loan while pursuing these degrees? If you have any other advice or information on how to become an I/O psychologist it would be greatly appreciated! I would also love to read about personal experiences within the career as well as personal paths to the career. Thanks again!</p>