The Ins and Outs of Applying to Grad SchoolYou’ve decided that grad school is the next step for you, which is fantastic! Now you’re on the search for the perfect program. I am here to give you the details on which aspects you should consider. Once you have chosen a few programs, there are additional steps to simply applying.
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Deadline Make a calendar for the deadlines for all the schools you plan on applying to. Deadlines can be just about any time of the year, which is good if you decide last minute like I did. If the deadline is not listed on the website, email the director of graduate admissions. They may be your contact person for many questions regarding the program, so don’t be afraid to ask them questions!
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Professors Running the ProgramDoes your dream school have professors who share the same research interests as you? You don’t want to work with a professor whose interest is flying squirrels in Alaska, if your interest is plains biodiversity. Contact professors in the program about doing research with them. Even if you don’t plan on doing a great deal of research, contact professors because you will be working with them in some capacity.
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Requirements for the ProgramEach program is unique in its own way, which means the requirements for admission vary. Some programs require the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT. Some programs do not require a standardized test at all if you meet a GPA requirement, so check out the requirements early!
Other requirements programs have are letters of recommendation and a personal statement. Approach professors that know your work to write your letters of recommendations. Ideally you also have some rapport with that professor if you’re asking for a letter. Some professors will ask you give them a focus to write about in the letter, like your academics or your accomplishments outside of academics. Your letter of recommendation may have some of the same themes as your personal statement. When you write your personal statement, discuss your goals and how the program will help you achieve those goals. You’re telling the director of admissions why you think you belong in that program. You can even use your personal statement as a reference point for your professors writing your letters of recommendation!
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Graduate Assistantships Why do GAships matter? First of all, your tuition is paid for. Second of all, your tuition is paid for! Grad school is significantly more expensive than undergrad, so taking the time to find out about assistantships is a valuable investment of your time. Contact the programs you want to apply to about their assistantships. Do not feel limited to just the department your studies are in. Departments all around campus have funding for graduate students, so take advantage of those opportunities! Examples of places you could work: campus recreation, athletics, housing, offices in the dean of student’s office and teaching courses. Do not ever be afraid to ask about resources that can make your life easier. GAships are an opportunity for you to gain skills you can put on your resume, as well as get grad school paid for!