4 Tips For Those Considering Graduate School
Start writing a post
Student Life

4 Tips For Those Considering Graduate School

I haven't gone yet. Here's why that was good for me.

11
4 Tips For Those Considering Graduate School

As an aspiring professional, I just want to find that big break. That one city, that one job and that one academic program that'll further my goals in making an impact on the world. Yes, I sound like the stereotypical millennial. But I like many people my age, work continuously to get to where we want to be. Whether it's for the success or the impact that we make, it's a need for progress. And as a person trying to finance a graduate program, it's hard to continue. Here are some of my tips for those of you out there in the process of applying, accepting, and potentially going to graduate school.

1. Know what you want to do.

Whether it's Russian Literature or a fellowship working to cure cancer, find something that you won't mind spending more time, money and valuable career building resources on. I have personally known what I wanted to do since I was in high school - tell people's stories. Whether that was through journalism, forensic anthropology or social documentation (all of which I've considered pursuing), I knew what I wanted my work to do. The medium or field in which I tell stories is pertinent but not set in stone. Know where your passion lies and follow where it takes you.

2. Apply to EVERYTHING.

I know, I hate writing statements of interest and project proposals. I'm looking for a Master's program which, while competitive, isn't as complex as say PhD programs or MD spots. But you'll regret not applying. Most schools have a limited period of application especially if they only admit new candidates yearly. If you are dedicated to continuing your education and career, it's a small sacrifice to reach out to recommenders and edit applications to perfection. There are also fellowships, scholarships and funds available through application. Of course, it's hard applying to everything all at once; you may be short on cash or have little time because of work or school. Do everything you can and hope for the best. And pat yourself on the freaking back because you just did something very difficult and self-reflecting.

3. Be willing to compromise.

I say this because there are certain factors which may make one school more worth it than another. Depending on what your requirements are for a program, a program slightly tweaked from the exact expectation that you have could be worth it. I know that a lot of my choice has to do with financing my education. While there are loans available to me, I don't plan to go 50 thousand dollars in debt. I want my graduate degree to be worth both the experience and the economic impact. So if there are some programs you're impressed by offering you more funds and opportunities than your dream school, consider switching up your plan.

4. Make the best decision for you.

I was accepted last year to the Master's in Visual Anthropology program at the University of Southern California. However, I didn't end up going for financial reasons. While I was disappointed that my professional endeavors were paused for a year as I took this time off instead, it was ultimately the right decision. I've lived on my own and have been bettering myself and my professional prospects. I had time to relax after a stressful four-year program and recuperate. It would have been hell continuing my education without a break. So know that you owe no one for your success and do what is best for you. You will get that dream job, dream city, and dream academic program.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

54941
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

35360
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

957511
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

184372
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments