Graduate school is not for everyone. It can be a tool for promotion in work for some but some take it as a passion, passion to learn.
Things to consider for graduate school
After completing a college degree some proceed in applying for a dream job while some wish to pursue more schooling. As fellow graduates prepare resumes and application letters there are those who preparer for school recommendations and scholarship applications for graduate school.
Let us admit it, many of us had a hard time in college and how we wished it could end as fast as possible. But there are also those that find learning self-fulfilling and worth their time. Graduate school is a matter of choice, a choice that has conditions worth considering.
For graduates planning to proceed with masters and even a doctorate degree, here is some friendly advice you might want to consider in choosing a graduate school.
Can this school provide you the needed foundation you aspire for?
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- Are the courses included in your chosen program relevant to your specialization? A candidate must understand that the courses to be taken should have relevance to his specialization, this serves as a foundation for more complex courses in the later years in graduate school.
- Syllabus and course curriculum is essential in determining the contents of the courses of a program.
- Textbook references used by professors should be considered. Are they advanced and fir for a grad school setup?
- Are professors approachable and easy to converse with? Communication with professors is essential in maintaining a healthy learning environment.
Do you see a viable candidate for a research adviser among the professors available?
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- It is better to think in advance. Browse through the active advisers for research in the school you plan to apply for. Make sure that there is a good pool of excellent professors willing to take up an advisory on the specialization you wish to enroll for.
- Adviser and student compatibility is important in coming up with a well-written research paper.
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Location of the graduate school
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- Imagine yourself living in the location for the next 4-7 years of graduate school. If it fits your lifestyle then it might be the right place for you. You must consider the environment you will be in for the duration of your study and research, is it conducive for learning and away from distractions? will it help you concentrate more on your study?
If you find the answer to all the questions is Yes, then you might consider this grad school you have in mind. Choosing the right school is tough, so better make your stay convenient and worthwhile. Trust your instincts and good luck in grad school.
