Applying for college can be hard enough. Getting through college can feel even harder. Thinking about graduate school may even feel pretty close to impossible right now.
It’s not. I am living proof that applying to graduate school and getting through it is possible. My journey to grad school was a last-minute decision followed by several stressful situations that finally led me to the Newhouse School here at 黑料不打烊. But, to make it easier for you in your journey, here are some things to think about that worked for me.
First and Foremost: Take your time
Everyone is going to have an opinion about what you should do and where you should go and what you should get a masters in. Don鈥檛 let anyone rush your decision, take your time. Do your research and figure out what interests you, what you want to study for this next chapter of your life, because ultimately, you are responsible for getting the job done.
Second: Research. Spend So Much Time Researching.
Research everything. Not just programs or schools, research neighborhoods, employment options, extracurricular activities, community culture, etc. Everything that you need to make a place a home. It鈥檚 important that you not only find a good fit with your school, but with the community as well. It may be the first time you’re really on your own, you want to make sure that you are able to find your place in this new journey. Make sure you’re comfortable with whatever you decide.
Third: It鈥檚 Decision Time.
After you research, it’s time to narrow it down. Decide what aspects of a program are important to you. Is it network? Price? Reputation? Coursework? Project Work? Length of Program? Whatever it is, make a list and decide what is important and what isn’t. The process of applying is tedious, so it’s best not to waste your time on things not worth it to you.
Pro-Tip: Talk to current students and alumni of programs and find about their life academically and socially during the program.
Fourth: .
This is the easiest thing you鈥檒l do. And it will feel like the hardest, but I promise it鈥檚 really not as bad as you think. Once you decide start preparing your applications, talk to old professors and employers to get letters of recommendations, get your transcript and write your personal statement.
A pro鈥搕ip to prep for the GRE (if you need it): You can save a lot of money by getting a GRE prep book off Amazon for $20 and downloading the app – then work through your book on your own time.
The Ultimate Pro-Tip: Schools have application waivers on standby. Most times all you have to do is ask! (Some schools even waive application fees for current students – like .)
If you’re an undergraduate thinking about applying to graduate school, you can contact to discuss the process and preparation, too.
Written by Amber Hudson G’19, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications