Is it the right choice for your student?
Just when
you thought the tuition bills were coming to an end, your son or daughter
informs you that he or she wants to go to graduate or professional school. This
is a big decision for a student to make and there are several considerations to
take into account during this process.
The first consideration is your student's career goals. Does the field that
he or she wants to enter reward or require a graduate education? Graduate school
should not be used as a way to postpone finding a job. Decide what terminal
degree is necessary (Master, Doctorate). Decide what criteria are most important
in choosing a program. Attending graduate or professional school means a huge
investment of time and money.
Researching Graduate/Professional Programs
- Utilize reference books and university folders in the Career Center Library.
- Talk with professionals in the field about their graduate school
experiences.
- Research the ratings and accreditation of the schools.
- Write to the schools of interest and obtain graduate catalogs, admission and
financial aid information, and inquire about a school visit.
- Talk with current and former students of graduate programs and ask for their
evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the program.
- Attend Graduate / Profession School Day Fair.
If your student is considering applying to law, medical, dental, or health-
related graduate or professional schools, we recommend a visit to the Office of Professional School
Advising, located in room 205 of the Academic Building. Advisors are on hand
to assist students with the research and application processes.
