Graduate Schools No Longer So Popular (Press, 15 May 1971)

A significant shift is occurring among graduates from prestigious colleges regarding their interest in pursuing advanced degrees, as reported on 15 May 1971. This trend is particularly evident in Ivy League institutions, where there has been a marked decline in the number of seniors intending to go to graduate school. In contrast, there is a notable increase in students who are undecided about their future careers, some of whom plan to take a gap year to travel or explore vocational options rather than traditional professions. While many fields are seeing a decrease in interest, applications to law and medical schools have surged. For example, Harvard saw a dramatic increase in seniors wanting to attend medical school and a rise in law school applications, with similar trends noted at Columbia. The "Harvard Bulletin" highlighted that the number of undecided seniors had risen from 90 four years ago to over 250, and the proportion of graduates moving directly to graduate school dropped from 74 per cent in 1966 to 45 per cent last year. Several factors contribute to these changes. Publicity surrounding a "Ph.D. glut" has made potential graduate students wary due to disappointing job prospects for Ph.D. holders in various sectors, including academia. Moreover, the end of draft deferments for graduate students in 1967 removed the appeal of graduate school as a safe haven from military service. Financial constraints also play a crucial role, as many students feel they cannot afford further education without significant financial support. There appears to be a cultural shift among graduates, with many young people opting for what they perceive as less conventional or less demanding career paths. Reports indicate that Harvard and Radcliffe graduates are taking up jobs as cab drivers, organic food sellers, and tradespeople, whilst Columbia had students pursuing unique roles, such as a lion-tamer and an activist for homosexual rights. In response, institutions are adapting career guidance resources to reflect these new interests in social change and alternative vocations. Despite the drop in interest in some graduate fields, many students are still drawn to law and medicine, viewing these as avenues for altruistic work. Law graduates, for instance, are increasingly interested in consumer protection and civil rights, rather than corporate law. The consequences of these trends for graduate education are concerning, particularly as leading universities are feeling the brunt of the application decline, which could impact the quality of graduate instruction overall. The article raises important questions about the potential effects of this trend on government service, leadership, and the future workforce. Overall, the evolving attitudes of graduates towards education and employment reflect broader societal shifts and could signify a significant transformation in the values and aspirations of the upcoming generation.

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