Purdue University Student Chapter Graduate School and You Erin Cutler & Ryan Henkensiefken September 24, 2008

Take it From the Experts BSCE Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Structural Department LTAP Graduate Assistant BSCE Minnesota State, Mankato Materials Department Graduate Assistant under Professor Weiss

Go to school more? On Purpose? Graduate school is different from undergraduate study Focus on a single area of interest to YOU Open doors to new opportunities Distinguish yourself from the thousands of BS students Does it fit in with your career goals?

Where do I start? Google it Attend the Grad School Expo September Take the GRE

What's the GRE? GRE Tests Verbal reasoning Quantitative reasoning Critical thinking Analytical writing skills Take the “General Test” Study Visit GRE website for study tools $140 to take exam

Which school is right for me? Things to consider School Reputation Program Reputation Faculty Funding options Location Visit the school

How do I apply for Graduate School? Schools websites usually have application information Graduate admission is different from undergraduate admission It’s typically not free Can apply for school no matter when you graduate Keep an eye on the deadlines

The Application Get recommendation letters Get Transcripts Turn in the Statement of Purpose Purpose for continuing graduate study Professional plans Career goals Research interests Awards/Achievements Abilities

How do I pay for it? ACI Scholarships and Fellowships ate.htm ate.htm Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF) Assistantships Research Assistant Teaching Assistant

Purdue, Round 2 rospective/ rospective/ Apply to graduate school Visit Purdue University Research Expertise (PURE) Talk to professors

Finally, Purdue Pays Me Tuition Remission You don’t pay tuition You still pay student fees $1,200 per semester Monthly Stipend $1,550 – paid at the end of the month Medical Insurance at employee rates

PhD vs. MS PhD takes up to 7 years MS takes up to 2 years Decision doesn’t have to be made right away Do the MS first then do a PhD

Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Thesis It’s a short “book” on your research 21 Credits of Coursework (7 – 3 credit classes) Defend (Give a presentation) after the thesis is written Non-Thesis 30 Credits (10 – 3 credit classes) Harder to get funding

Questions