Is it too late to apply? How do I find a Program that’s a good fit? I wonder if there are special tricks to getting admitted? Going to Graduate School: Steps to take and issues to consider Erika Barthelmess and Emily Dixon October 11, 2006 St. Lawrence University

Planning for grad school Selecting a program Applying to the program Finding funding Making visits to the program Selecting an advisor

Grad School vs. Undergrad School Key differences between the two programs –Extracurricular activities –Working –Studying What degree should you go for? –Masters degree vs. PhD

Choosing where to apply Select a personSelect a program Initiating contact Taking the GRE Submitting your application Writing a personal statement Obtaining letters of rec Committing Securing funding Visiting programs Finding housing Oct - NovFeb - MarApr - JuneJuly - SeptDec - Jan

Choosing where to apply Select a personSelect a program Initiating contact Taking the GRE

Choosing where to apply Selecting a person –Searching the literature –Talking to professors –Via research experience Selecting a program –Searching the literature –Talking to professors –Via research experience Some web resources: Peterson’s guidePeterson’s guide Pedigree?!

Initiating contact Correspond with potential faculty mentors: –Do they have room in their labs? –Do they have support? –Do they bother? Introduce yourself –Interests in research, subject –Relevant experience Do your homework!!!

Initiating contact Correspond with current grad students: –What do they like/dislike about program? –Person (Advisor)? –Adequate funding? –Life issues (cost of living, etc.)

Initiating contact Dear Dr. X, I am a junior/senior at St. Lawrence University majoring in X. I am writing to inquire whether you will be taking on any new graduate students next fall. During my tenure at St. Lawrence, I have developed interests in X (something more specific than the name of your major). I am familiar with your research, and would be interested to learn more details about your research program. I have had the opportunity to conduct my own independent research as an undergraduate (tell something about what you’ve been doing), and am excited about the prospect of continuing to do research in graduate school. I’d be happy to send more information about myself, including my current resume and transcripts. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely,

Taking the GREGRE Which test? When should I take it? How should I prepare? Who should I send my scores to?

Submitting your application Writing a personal statement Obtaining letters of rec

Writing a personal statement Do a good job (proof-read, spell check, etc) Sell yourself Be honest (you are not promising anything) Consider having a mentor read your statement Be able to say why you want the degree Have some sort of research interest?

Submitting your application Timing is everything! –Important for access to support funding –Often requires support from a graduate mentor –Communicate with your potential mentor

Obtaining letters of rec Who from? When? –As early as possible!!!!!! –Give a copy of your resume, personal statement –Check to see if you need envelopes –Make deadlines clear

Securing funding Visiting programs

Securing funding Generally two types: –Research Assistantship (RA) –Teaching Assistantship (TA) Other sources: –Bring your own funding (NSF)NSF –Work - not advised Issues to be aware of: –Tuition waivers –In-state tuition –Establishing residency NOV 8, NOV 13

Visiting programs Crucial to making a good decision INTERVIEW OTHER GRAD STUDENTS May have to spend your own $ Interview weekends

But when should I go? Should I take time off? What is different if I take time off before I go? What should I do in the meantime? Masters vs. PhD

Committing Finding housing

Committing and Finding Housing Generally need to commit to a program by April 1-15 or so. Ask graduate school for information about housing in the area –Share with other grad students –Cheap rentals –University housing?