Dear hallh,

It all depends on the job market situation from where you live… Do you have recent graduates you know (from one-two years ago) to share their perspective, what was valued more while looking for a job- a good referral and experience or the degree itself? I know it’s ideal to get them both in some time… How much will this opportunity prolong your dissertation? And is your ultimate goal from your studies to get a good job?

If you asked me this question while I was still a student, I’d definitely say go for your studies… I know what a struggle they are and how ‘getting cold’ from studying can happen fast (many people who find decent job never finish the studies, which is a shame..). But few months after graduating, while job hunting in the middle of the recession, in place of high unemployment, I learned the hard way how much the employers value a decent job experience and a good references,sometimes more than the degree itself, so I regretted not having those, a lot!! They would have bean a game changer. So, I’d advice anyone in my position to get those by any means..

But that was the situation in my branch, in my country. Every field and place are story of it’s own, so I think advice from someone who graduated in your field and university recently, and went job hunting would be most helpful. I know some of my peer’s advises saved me a lot of trouble at that time..

Whatever you do, I wish you the best of luck and I know if you are determined, you’ll manage to get them both!