PREPARING FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL
Learning Objectives Differentiate between a Graduate Degree Program and a Professional Degree Program. Create a list of steps necessary for application to, and progression in, a graduate or professional degree program. Identify two (2) different offices on the USC Campus that will aid in advisement and scholarships in preparation for graduate education.
Overview Your motivation for attending Types of graduate study Factors to consider in choosing a program Application process The graduate school essay General advice USC Offices & Career Center resources
True or False? If I do not go to graduate school now, I may never go. I can get a job in my field without a graduate degree, but not in my specialized area of interest. A graduate degree will significantly increase my entry level salary. I am actively exploring both graduate school and direct entry into the market place. I like school; I am not ready to leave the academic environment. I am unsure of my career goals and graduate school will help me clarify my interests.
Types of Graduate Study Professional Schools Includes dental, medical, veterinarian, law, paralegal and business schools Evaluate applicants according to responses to application essay questions or personal statements (ethical, philosophical and scenario) Interested in community service, leadership, organizational involvement, and work experience Look closely at results of tests such as the LSAT, MCAT and the rigor of coursework taken More students go directly into professional school from undergraduate education
Types of Graduate Study Graduate Schools Determining specialty area is important For example: Counseling = M.Ed. (Masters of Education) in Counselor Education, MA (Master of Arts) in Counseling Psychology, or MSW (Master of Social Work). Interested in community service, leadership, organizational involvement, work experience and standardized tests (general and subject) Undergraduate degree may be more important Some industries and schools prefer students to take time off between undergraduate and graduate studies
Factors to Consider Choosing a Program Geographical area Finances Experiential learning Reputation & quality Demographics & culture Publications and research of faculty Requirements Preparation/placement record
Application Process Junior Year: Fall, Spring & Summer Decide academic/professional and area(s) of interest Determine financial resources - research scholarships Talk to advisors and professors about programs Research institutions and programs (criteria/deadlines) Visit schools or call program coordinators or students Register for appropriate graduate admissions tests Obtain needed application materials Write resume and have it critiqued at Career Center Ask for letters of recommendation
Application Process Senior Year: Fall and Spring Request copies of transcripts Write application essay and have it critiqued by the Career Center or Writing Center Apply for financial aid, student loans, scholarships Send completed applications Check before deadlines that all has been received Visit and/or interview at institutions Pay deposit to institution of choice Make housing arrangements (applications?) Notify other institutions of acceptance (waiting list) Send thank you notes
Writing the Graduate School Essay Types of essays: motivation for graduate study strengths and weaknesses values and philosophies greatest achievements influential life events solutions to hypothetical problems Content: statement of your ideas or goals some personal history keep essay positive and upbeat
Writing the Graduate School Essay For what is the Admissions Committee looking? Reflection of writing abilities (grammar & creativity) Clarity, focus and depth of your thinking - maturity Reasons for deciding to pursue graduate education Expectations of the program and career opportunities Motivation, commitment, and enthusiasm for particular field of study or area of special interest Immediate and long-term goals How previous education relates to your future Previous research or work experience Personal uniqueness
Writing the Graduate School Essay Approaches and Tips Focus on what makes you unique what will make you stand out from other applicants? Outline the main points you want to cover Jot down ideas on paper as they come to you - then organize in a logical sequence Use catchy title (theme) Concentrate on the opening paragraph Open or end with a quote Have an angle or a hook Tell a story
Some General Advice Start early!! Use faculty & department resources Be realistic about the competitiveness of programs Don t put all your eggs in one basket - diversify your search Have a back-up plan (implement a simultaneous job search?)
USC Resources Office of Pre-Professional Advising Assist students with application process for law, medical and health related institutions provide information on community service projects with area hospitals and agencies Offer job shadowing in health and law Provide essay writing workshops, medical school tours and a trip to the Law School Forum in Atlanta University Test Prep GMAT, LAST, GRE, SAT, ACT Makes test preparation affordable and available to all USC students and staff The Graduate School Online forms for applying at USC The Graduate Studies Bulletin
Career Center Resources Meet with Career Center staff to discuss: Motivation for attending Program selection Interviewing techniques Writing Essays get a critique Job Search Resource Meet with a counselor: (No appointment needed) Monday Friday 1:00 pm 4:00 pm Visit the Career Center Web Resources Graduate School Section: www.sc.edu/career/preparegradschool.html Visit the Career Center Library to view: Graduate program directories Essay writing advice and samples Graduate scholarship directories Free registration booklets for exams
Any Questions? Thanks for your attention.