Prepare for Graduate School
Welcome to our virtual community space for college students planning to pursue graduate studies, and for advanced degree holders preparing for the next steps in their careers. This platform offers guidance on selecting the right programs, crafting compelling applications, and preparing for entrance exams.
Is Grad School For You?
There are many excellent reasons to pursue a graduate degree, but it’s important to consider why you’re interested in going and what you’d like to do with a master’s or doctoral degree. Perhaps your career path demands graduate work. Perhaps more interesting doors will open for you in your field if you have a graduate degree.
Before you look at the Graduate School Checklist, see if any of these statements match your thoughts on grad school:
- I want to go to grad school, but I don’t know what I want to study.
- I’m going to grad school because I want to make more money.
- I’m not ready to make a career decision, so I’ll do grad school first.
- All my friends are going to grad school.
- There are no jobs in my field; grad school is my only option.
- I’m not ready to go to work yet.
If any of the above reasons describe your motivations for grad school, stop and consider your personal career goals first. (The Center for Career Development can help you with this!) Funding is available for grad school, but you’ll likely incur debt in the process. Graduate programs can last anywhere from 2-7 years, and require rigorous academic commitment. Before you invest your time and money, be certain that you have a plan.
If you’re not sure you’re ready, it’s okay to wait. Working for a year (or several), serving in a gap year service program, or even volunteering can provide you with invaluable practical experience that may make your grad school application stronger. (You may also find that graduate school isn’t necessary to follow your desired career path.)
