You know the feeling all too well…the one that fills you to the brim with panic, fear, and slight desperation. The big question you get at all family gatherings and holidays… “So what are you going to do after college?” To which you created some pre-rehearsed answers because you don’t want to dive into everyone’s opinions about your future over a Thanksgiving turkey and mashed potatoes. Maybe you’ve even thought about grad school, but you’re unsure of where to look or even what you would like to get a higher degree in. And well, at least if you are anything like me, you’re probably one hair tie break away from a total meltdown.
When I applied to UT Austin for my undergrad, I felt safe and secure. I knew I wanted to go here and what I wanted to major in. But as I contemplated earning a master’s degree, I didn’t know what universities even have grad schools, or what experience I wanted for myself: In-state, out-of-state, master in my undergrad major, or something different? And how the heck does financial aid work there? I felt overwhelmed and unmotivated to even begin my journey. And as I began to research and ask around about graduate programs, I found many people in my same position. So, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work writing this for all my other fellow “I-don’t-know-what-I-want-to-doers”. Here is my lazy girl’s guide to grad school applications.
- Ask yourself, is this really what I want?
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I know growing up is scary and staying in school seems like the safe option. But let me tell you, grad school is not going to be easy! Possibly spending thousands of dollars on a degree you won’t be passionate about will only hurt you. That’s why this is my first and biggest piece of advice: ask yourself WHY you want to go to grad school. Getting a higher level of education will help you in so many realms of your life, especially in your career. But grad school is not one-size-fits-all. This is the only time I will tell you to live by The Bachelor franchise motto, and truly decide if you are “here for the right reasons”.
- Law, Fashion, and Politics: Oh My!
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So, you have decided grad school is for you, but what to study? Most people believe they have to get their master’s in something related to their undergraduate degree, and while it might be an easier route, it’s not the only option! I have an undergraduate degree in Public Health and have contemplated master’s in Communication, Digital Media, and International Relations! You can study anything you are passionate about, and you feel you will benefit from. But you have to research the program’s specific requirements. Some programs do require you to have experience in the field you are applying for; others are open to applications from all majors.
- Read the Curriculum Guides
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If you have found multiple programs you think you might be interested in but have no idea what the coursework would entail, check out the curriculum guides. Most graduate school websites have all the information about the classes and requirements you will be taking as a grad student. Just look up the grad school website, click on the college your program falls under, locate your program, and search for the guide!
- Read the Fine Print
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My dad always tells me to read the fine print, and now I’m telling you. Read every section of the program description. Some graduate schools require 5+ years of real-world experience before you can even apply to their school. Others require you have intermediate fluency in another language, have a certain number of hours of economics, and so on! You must make sure you fit these requirements, so you don’t waste your time and money on an application. If you are unsure of any sneaky requirements or wonder if you can apply without fulfillment of one, email the program contact listed on their website! It is literally part of their job to answer any and all of your questions.
- Location, Location, Location
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Until now, I’ve been focused on the program and aid, but another important aspect to consider is location! Do you want a big city or small-town feel? East or West Coast? In-state or out? Also, every city has its own cost of living. Doing a master’s degree at Ohio State will not cost the same as the same degree from NYU. Make sure to check out average rent prices, types of neighborhoods, etc. Personally, I like big cities. I narrowed my search down to cities with incredible social scenes and culture such as New York City, Washington DC, and here in Austin. The city itself will shape part of your degree experience and should not be overlooked!
I hope I have helped you in any capacity on your journey to grad school! Taking this step is huge, and I commend you for your bravery and wish you the best of luck in your applications! Remember, no matter where you go, it is what you put into your program that will determine your success.