Are you thinking about graduate school and wondering if it’s right for you?
On February 26th, Career Services brought together six graduate students currently studying for their master’s degrees at Penn State Harrisburg to speak on a panel called “A Day in the Life of a Grad Student:” Alixandra Moyer (Training & Development), Krishna Gadia (Computer Science), Yizhi Zhang (Engineering Science), Chaitra Prahlada Gowda (Health Administration), Jingyao Gu (Environmental Pollution Control), and Ruta Dandekar (Business Administration).
The six panelists revealed the motivating factors behind their decision to pursue an advanced degree, along with the challenges and rewards. Moreover, they shared valuable tips and advice. So if you’re thinking about graduate school and missed the event, here are some of salient points they shared
1. Reasons to Attend Grad School
Typically, individuals attend graduate school because it’s required for entry to their career field or they have an extreme passion for their subject area or would like to do research. For others, their choice is based upon a desire to access higher wages or to ensure continued career advancement. The reasons vary. Our panelists Alice and Jing chose to pursue their master’s as a means to change paths. Chaitra, a former Dentist in India, seeks to round out her skill set through graduate school. Her previous education lacked instruction on administration and business; therefore, her master’s education in health administration will provide Chaitra with the knowledge and skills to run an office, supervise staff, and manage patient care better.
Krishna also sought a higher degree to advance his skill set; however, he did it to acquire more up-to-date technical knowledge in the field he was already studying. Alixandra found that she desired a challenge and change. She began as a master’s student in communication but found that she was studying too much of what she had already learned as an undergrad in that major. Therefore, she switched to training and development where she could apply what she learned in communications but also expand upon it. She believes her two degrees together will present a complementary pairing of skills, competencies, and experiences that will lead to a promising career
2. The Application Process
Students found their application process to be pretty straight forward. Some needed to submit GRE scores while others did not. It all depends up the school and program, so it was advised to research your requirements carefully. Generally, schools require some or all of the following: application (usually online), essay or personal statement, resume, test scores, and sometimes supplemental materials like a portfolio or writing samples. Students who visited their school before applying or acceptance found it helpful to schedule appointments for the day of their visit, to meet with admissions and faculty they hope to conduct research with or the program coordinator to learn more about their curriculum.
Panelist Jing travelled to two schools that required an interview as a part of their admission process and she admitted that it could either be quite intimidating or helpful. It all depends up the personalities you encounter and the culture of the institution. Jing did recommend that when talking with a professor, you should allow the faculty member to talk more than you. Do thorough research of the program, the professor’s CV, and their research publications in advance. She advised candidates to come prepared with questions and when appropriate, ask the right questions. Jing believes that it is through the right questions that the professor will recognize your intelligence and capacity for critical thinking, innovation, and research interests.
Be sure to read the second part of this blog next week, “What Is It Like to be a Graduate Student? Part II.” The Grad School Experience, The Challenges, and some Final Thoughts from our panelists. Stay tuned!
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