Ask HN: Entering the market place

In a few months I will have finished my studies of math and gotten my Diplom. (The German equivalent to a M.Sc, basically). I am writing my thesis at a railroad company in Frankfurt, Germany, about optimization of schedules.

In a few years I will have to pay back government student loans. Not a heavy burden - less than 10k Euros.

Now I am evaluating my options. I have identified three: (a) Work on my own (startup, freelancer, consulting), (b) work for someone else, (c) pursue a PhD in math, economics or CS.

My fiancee will do a PhD in Basel, Switzerland, in Systems Biology. So I place a premium on being in the general area. There are also a few other universities with relevant programs that she could apply to, if those other areas were more convenient for me.

I lean toward aquiring some savings by joining a management consulting company for some time. Afterwards I may do a PhD first or launch right into starting my own company. I consider management consulting because the 'up-or-out' model common to the industry makes it psychologically easier not to get trapped in a day job for your entire live there.

Of course I would like to read your comments. Perhaps you can also suggest an alternative I have overlooked or give some advise. Or ask for more details. You can email me, too. You'll find the address in my profile.

Thanks!