From Mid-sized Company to Graduate School: A Career Journey

Background

I used to work for a mid-sized company, often until 10 PM every night. Despite the long hours, my annual salary was only 30 million won under a comprehensive wage system.

The Decision to Pursue Graduate Studies

After some research, I discovered that the lab at my alma mater offered quite generous stipends for master's students. This led me to quit my job and enter graduate school, partly as an escape from my work situation.

Graduate School Experience

Since I didn't enter with a genuine passion for academics, I found it extremely challenging. Despite my best efforts, my performance wasn't as strong as my peers. Fortunately, through perseverance, I managed to graduate.

Job Market Outcomes

Before Graduate School

As an undergraduate, I was rejected by all large corporations and barely secured a position at a mid-sized company.

After Graduate School

• All large corporations that previously rejected me now accepted my applications through the initial screening.
• I interviewed with five companies, received offers from three, and had the luxury of choosing among them.

Field of Study

While my undergraduate major was in chemical engineering, I believe my success in job hunting was due to joining a semiconductor research lab for my graduate studies.

Conclusion

Although some career advisors discourage pursuing graduate education solely for employment purposes, I wanted to share my experience to show that it can be a viable option for career advancement.