Setting the Record Straight - 10 Common Misconceptions about Graduate School

Sky Hooler is a doctoral candidate in UAlbany’s Climate Science PhD program. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s and has been a graduate ambassador for several years. In this blog, she covers some common misconceptions she’s encountered about graduate school and her take on the facts. 

Myth #1: You have to go straight from undergrad.
Reality Check: The average grad student age in the U.S. is 32 according to a 2007 report by the Council of Graduate Schools, so many have significant work or life experience before starting. Diverse backgrounds often are beneficial to success with the student having innovative research approaches or problem-solving skills.

Myth #2: It’s basically undergrad 2.0.
Reality Check: This couldn’t be further from the truth. Sure, there are classes in the beginning, but your main focus shifts to independent research, conferences, and possibly publishing (particularly for a PhD). You’re treated more like an emerging researcher or professional, as if you are an employee rather than a student. 

Myth #3: You need publications to get into grad school.
Reality Check:  Publications are a bonus, but not at all a prerequisite. Admissions committees focus on potential, which includes research interests and professional goals, relevant experience, and strong recommendations.

Myth #4: Grad students aren’t compensated well.
Reality Check: Stipends vary for PhD students, but at UAlbany, for instance, we’re unionized, and there’s an effort to make sure fields like STEM and the liberal arts don’t have huge pay gaps. I find the pay to be comfortable and not at all limiting. Master’s students are often eligible for scholarships and on-campus jobs that help offset costs.

Myth #5: There’s no work-life balance.
Reality Check: A lot depends on your advisor’s expectations and your own time management. Before I started my Ph.D., I made sure we agreed on time off, especially during winter breaks. I love traveling and being active after work, so I factor it into my schedule. Balance is possible if you plan wisely.

Myth #6: Graduate cohorts are always cutthroat and competitive.
Reality Check: Your cohort’s culture depends heavily on the advisor. A supportive mentor and peers make all the difference. If an advisor values collaboration over favoritism, the cohort can be a close-knit community where everyone cheers each other on. When choosing a cohort, prioritize an environment that encourages cooperation and growth rather than rivalry.

Myth #7: Your advisor will hold your hand through everything.
Reality Check: A good advisor guides you, but also lets you tackle problems on your own. That independence is a key skill that should come out of a program, especially in a Ph.D.

Myth #8: Graduate degrees always takes forever.
Reality Check: Typically, fulltime Master’s take 2 to 3 years. Some people wrap up PhDs in four years, others take six or more. It often depends on your research topic, personal life, and pace.

Myth #9: Your career hits ‘pause’ in grad school.
Reality Check: I’ve taken on internships, policy training, and outreach projects while in my program. Far from pausing, my career prospects have grown.

Myth #10: Only Ivy League schools guarantee success.
Reality Check: Your program’s name is just one factor. The quality of your research, your network, and professional development count for more.