Questions to Ask
- Is graduate school necessary for my career interests?
- Am I willing to relocate for the program(s) I like?
- What opportunities (inside and outside of the classroom) would graduate school create for me?
- How long does it take for most students to complete the program?
- Would I be considered a competitive candidate for admission?
- Am I prepared for the potential student debt involved?
- Would working first be beneficial?
Note: Some graduate programs require applicants to have experience within the field prior to admittance. Even if it is not required, Career Services encourages students to gain professional experience while pursuing an advanced degree to make students more marketable upon graduation.
Prepare for Graduate Admission as an Undergraduate
Graduate and professional schools can be very competitive depending on the program. As an undergraduate, you can take a variety of steps to make your application stronger.
- Gain experience related to your field of study by completing research projects, internships, and volunteer activities.
- Take advantage of on-campus events, like career fairs, to network with professionals in the field.
- Actively participate in and/or lead academic student organizations.
- Get to know your professors well by participating in classes, research, and special projects.
- Join professional development organizations related to your field.
- Attend academic/professional conferences.
- Present at local, state, and/or national conferences.
- Try to get published as an undergraduate
- Submit your work to major journals as well as student journals.
- Contribute to a professor’s research and be listed on their article.