r/PostGradProblem

Throwing this out here because I genuinely need some outside perspective.

Background:
Prepped for GATE 2025 for about a year after graduation. Scored 35. Not a disaster, but nowhere near what I knew I was capable of. Looking back honestly — it wasn't a talent problem, it was an effort and focus problem. I genuinely believe I can score 50+ if I go at it the right way.

After that, I didn't sit idle. Picked up data analytics courses, did internships at a couple of startups as an ecommerce developer, then moved into freelancing through agencies. One of those projects converted into a full-time offer — 4 LPA. Not great on paper, I know. But I'm still freelancing on the side and money isn't really a concern right now since my family isn't dependent on me.

The thing is —
It's a 10-to-5 job. Structured hours. I genuinely feel like I have enough time in the evenings and weekends to prep seriously. I'm not hiding from anything or running from a bad situation — the gap, the job, all of it is on the table.

But here's what I keep coming back to: there's something deep in me that refuses to let the GATE thing go. Not out of desperation or pressure — just this quiet, persistent feeling that I left something unfinished. That I didn't give it my honest best shot.

So my actual question:
For people who've been in a similar spot — working, financially stable-ish, no external pressure — but still felt that pull toward GATE — did you go back? Did it pay off? Do you regret it either way?

I'm not looking to escape my job. I'm genuinely asking whether following that instinct is worth it, or whether it's just ego talking.

Would love honest takes, not just "follow your passion" or "GATE isn't everything." Give it to me straight.

TL;DR: Scored 35 in GATE 2025 after a year of prep. Know I can do 50+ with real effort. Now working a 10-to-5 job at 4 LPA with freelancing on the side. Financially stable, no pressure. But something keeps pulling me back to attempt GATE again. Is it worth going for it, or should I just move on?

this post is created by GPT/CLAUDE

Hi everyone!

I’ve recently finished my undergraduate psychology degree and I’m currently still partially engaged in a research internship, but I’m also starting to think seriously about my next professional steps.

I’m hoping to move into a stable, full-time paid role that allows me to continue developing professionally, ideally in an area connected to psychology, research, mental health, community services, HR, admin, or project/coordination work. I know these roles can be hard to come by, especially early on, but I’m keen to be proactive and learn more about what pathways are out there.

I’d love to hear from anyone who has been in a similar position after undergrad or postgrad where did you end up, what kinds of roles did you apply for, and what helped you get your foot in the door?

I’d also be really grateful for any informal mentorship or coffee chats from people who’ve been through this stage before. I’m mainly hoping to hear about different pathways, what helped you get started, and what you wish you knew earlier.

Thank you in advance :)