Career Exploration Tips for Graduate Students: Choosing the Right Graduate
Program
1. Choose a graduate program that works for you
a. Evaluate your long-term goals (By entering this program, what do you hope to
accomplish?)
b. Questions to consider:
i. Which area of study are you most interested in?
ii. Are there funding opportunities for graduate study (e.g. departmental
assistantships)
iii. What are the values and areas of focus of programs that you are
interested in?
iv. What are the research interests and experiences of the program’s faculty
core?
v. Is your program a reputable program?
vi. Does your program have the appropriate accreditations for your
industry?
vii. Are you interested in relocating?
viii. How have your interactions with the institutions been thus far?
2. Network
a. Get a Virtual/Physical Mentor
i. Establish contact with someone who works or teaches in your field of
interest
ii. Join the student professional organization of your program of interest
iii. Volunteer with agencies related to your field of interest
b. Email current students from programs of interest
c. Attend events sponsored by the department of your program of interest
3. Build a Graduate Application Portfolio
a. Choose at least 5 programs that you are interested in and create files that
contain the following:
i. Admissions Deadlines and Criteria
1. What is the application process? Will you have to complete a
departmental and graduate school application?
ii. 10 Copies of transcripts from every college attended
iii. Obtain official copies of admissions test results (e.g. GRE, MCAT, GMAT,
Miller Analogies, etc.)
iv. Letters of Recommendation (minimum of 2-3 per program)
v. General Statement of Purpose
vi. Updated Resume and references
b. Create a personal timeline (When do you hope to enter graduate school?)
Gordon State College
Career Services Center Graduate Series
Page 1