Wow this is good feedback. I’ll just give some short thoughts on what you said, but thank you for all of that. I’ll also use your comment to give more info about what I’m doing.

1. My program is on the civil side of engineering and is most applicable in space exploration and crossover with other engineering fields. I expect industry would find most of the skills I’d use valuable.
2. I’ve heard this and I’m prepared, but luckily I’m not doing a thesis if I go for this. I’d be writing papers instead.
3. One of my goals is to establish good contacts, so this is good to hear
4. I’m trying to avoid this actually, I’d rather not work and do school at the same time
5. Very much heard and I’m not considering a PhD unless I find myself either enjoying research or I have a career application for it.
6. I do actually have a research assistantship lined up so paying for a masters shouldn’t be a problem.