Whatever your reason, you shouldn't be afraid of trying to align your current interests with your future career — even if it means pursuing an advanced degree that's different from your undergraduate degree.
In order to better demonstrate this idea, we chatted with Korina, a current WVU student working towards a Ph.D. Here's what she had to say about pursuing two advanced degrees in Forensic & Investigative Science after she graduated with a bachelor's in Chemistry.
Tell me a little bit about yourself. What’s your name and age?
My name is Korina Layli Menking- Hoggatt, and I’m 32 years old. I was born in Dallas, Texas and raised in Charleston, WV. I am the oldest of 3 children, my brother is 6 years younger and my sister is 10 years younger, so I have spent my whole life being the older sister and a role model.
It was only when I became older that I thought of myself as a leader and noticed how much influence my actions have on my siblings and others.
Where/when, and in what did you graduate with your bachelor’s degree?
I graduated with a B.S. in Chemistry from West Virginia State University in 2009.
When did you graduate with your master’s degree?
I completed my graduate degree in Forensic & Investigative Science in the fall of 2017.
What degree are you currently pursuing at WVU?
I’m pursuing my Ph.D. in Forensic & Investigative Science.
What caused you to change direction and pursue an unrelated degree in graduate school?
l always wanted to be within the forensic field, but the path to medical school to become a forensic pathologist was not meant for me, and I wanted to stay in the state of West Virginia while I pursued my degrees.
I reached out the Department of Forensic & Investigative Science at WVU, and by talking to an academic advisor, I realized that this was the path I was meant to be on!
How did your bachelor’s degree prepare you to pursue an unrelated grad degree?
From my research, back in the day, I knew I needed a STEM path.
Chemistry provided instrumentation and analytical techniques that would compliment the later research I hoped to do.
How has WVU helped you to successfully navigate the admissions process?
My advisor has been involved and able to give my nontraditional situation the attention it needed.
What is your favorite thing about WVU?
My favorite thing about WVU is being a part of the positive image of the state of West Virginia. We are a truly unique state with wonderful opportunities and a resilient spirit.
Here at West Virginia University, we are dedicated to helping you be exceptional. Whether you're considering graduate school online, stressing about GRE test prep or financing graduate school, or getting excited about a career change, the WVU Admissions team is here to help you succeed. We invite you to request more info today!
Are you making plans to change careers but need some guidance and inspiration? Check out our digital resource — Make the Change: A Comprehensive Guide to Graduate Programs for Career Changers — and let us help you navigate the process of changing career fields!