As you progress through this semester, you might be a student in the final years of your academic career who is at a crossroads between going down a professional career path or furthering your academic career in graduate school. You may also be a student who is in the early stages of university want to think ahead to what you’ll do after graduation. Either way, considering what future opportunities lie ahead for you is the first step!
Thinking about grad school can be a daunting prospect because it is a higher level of education. You might be thinking…what is grad school like on a day-to-day basis? Will a graduate degree in what I studied secure a stable career for me in the future? What are certain factors I need to take into consideration when making the decision to apply to a graduate program? These are all very good and important questions to ponder as you further your academic or professional career after your undergrad.
Many students have certain doubts or misconceptions about graduate school, meaning you are not alone. With that being said, it is also helpful to know there are a few resources here on campus that help students answer questions, or guide you through the transition.
- Talking to an Academic Advisor is a great resource to utilize when you need help making a decision about a graduate program. Academic advisors are equipped to answer administrative questions or point you in the right direction if you need more support.
- Stay in contact with your professors! Professors are not there to only teach you, but guide you in the direction of your academic pursuits. Email professors that are conducting research or in a field that interests you. Pick their brain about their work and if your interest grows, you can have the conversation with them about working on their research. This way, you can deduce what programs are aligned with your career or academic goals.
- If you come to the conclusion that graduate school is the right path for you, we recommend that you visit the UBC Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies website for helpful tips and resources on starting your graduate school applications. Advisors will help prospective graduate students on a range of topics spanning from personal statements to financial planning.
These are a few recommendations when contemplating graduate school. I’m sure that there are more ways in so doing.
If you are interested in this topic check out the new episode on our podcast, [in]Tuition.
