Fresh grads: Graduate program, or no?
 

Hi,

What are the merits of going for a graduate program as a fresh grad, versus a direct hire?

I've heard mixed reviews, with some saying that the program is a 'fast track' to promotions as the company expends resources training the 'next batch of leaders', while others say that it is a waste of time.

Updating original post:

Hi,

For fresh grads, what are the merits of going for a graduate program as a fresh grad, versus a direct hire?

I've heard mixed reviews, with some saying that the program is a 'fast track' to promotions as the company expends resources training the 'next batch of leaders', while others say that it is a waste of time.

Background
Given 2 offers:
Company A with a grad program at a better reputed company
Company B and another with a direct hire, but slightly better benefits, including a 15% higher starting salary.

Leaning towards grad program at the better company, but the 15% higher starting salary + better benefits of the other company is really tempting too.

I think it depends on the company you're applying to. Many companies tend to use the word "Graduation Program" very loosely.

Personally, I think that if you do not have a clear direction in mind yet, a graduate program will be a better choice since there will be rotations within the 2 years. I'm currently waiting for an offer for a graduate program myself.

But if you're after a specific skillset that a particular job can offer, a direct hire will be better.

But just curious, what field are you in? Since graduation programs tend to pay higher than market rate. So in your case, Coy B seems to pay a even higher salary? Must be a specialised field?

I'm in tech, for a general developer role (B) I'm leaning towards a grad program as well as I like the structured program.