Step by Step Guide |
Figuring out where to go to graduate school and how to apply can be a daunting process. Let us guide you through the process.
Should I go to graduate school?
Graduate school may be a good idea for you if:
- Graduate school is necessary to attain your career goals.
- Graduate school would broaden your skills in ways that other certification and workshops would not.
- The cost benefits are worth the financial investment.
- You have had internship experiences in the field to support your interest in this career.
- You are highly motivated and desire responsibility; you enjoy and perform well in an academic environment.
Graduate school may not be a good idea if:
- You are trying to postpone a career decision or avoid employment.
- You are responding to outside pressures from peers, family or faculty.
- Graduate school seems like a "safe" alternative to looking for a job.
- You are expecting to make more money or be assured job security from a graduate school degree.
What steps do I need to take?
First steps often begin during fall semester of a student's junior year.
Step 1
- Contact schools/programs of interest
- Collect catalogues, brochures, applications and entrance exam information
Step 2
- Visit schools, formally or informally
- Arrange to meet with program faculty and students
- Check into housing possibilities
- Research financial aid, assistantships and fellowships
- Register and take graduate entrance exam(s)
Step 3
- Gather information and directions for applications
- Complete applications with enclosed application fees
- Submit all required information by deadline(s)
Step 4
- Reply to interview offers, set up interview
- Interview, wait for a response
- Accept/reject, closure
Top Ten Graduate School Tips
- Know why you're going; otherwise you'll flounder.
- Focus your study quickly once you start a graduate program.
- Get to know the professors in the programs that interest you.
- Investigate departments in terms of the students' success rate.
- Think for yourself.
- Read as much in your field as possible.
- Learn how to sell yourself in a substantial, credible way.
- Know the history and basic theories of your field.
- Don't go if money is your main motivation.
- Make sure you're devoted--it's a long haul.
Other Resources
Other places to investigate for graduate school information include the honors program office, your academic department, the Calvin bookstore, local bookstores and online graduate school resources.
