Career Development Center
Pursuing a graduate or professional degree is an important decision that requires significant planning.
The Career Development Center can help you:
Graduate school is not just another year (or two or three) of college. It can be as different from your undergraduate work as high school was from college. The Career Development Center can assist you with making this important decision. To get you started, here are some questions you should ask yourself:
If you struggled to answer these questions, call the Career Development Center at 610-683-4067 to schedule an appointment for individual career coaching. A staff member will help you clarify your goals so you can make the best decision for you.
You can also learn about the top qualities needed to be a successful graduate student: https://www.gograd.org/success-in-graduate-school/
Understanding the graduate school application process is an important first step.
Workshops, Events & Presentations
Every semester, the CDC hosts workshops and information sessions on topics relevant to graduate school. Additionally, a Graduate School Fair is held each fall during which students can meet and talk to representatives from local and regional graduate and professional schools. Click here for Schedule of Events.
Graduate School Timeline
The graduate school application process takes time and planning, so strong organization is key. Click here for a sample timeline to help you stay on track.
There are a number of factors to consider when researching schools and deciding where to apply.
Costs and Financial Assistance- What is the tuition? What opportunities exist for assistantships and scholarships?
1. Learn about graduate and professional opportunities by utilizing comprehensive websites that provide listings of graduate and professional programs across the country. Here are just a few:
2. Research individual school websites paying particular attention to application procedures and deadlines.
3. Speak with faculty in your major and/or field of interest.
4. Attend the Graduate School Fair held each Fall. (See Schedule of Events)
Strategize and Plan
Be proactive and make a plan for completing your applications. Make yourself aware of specific deadlines and requirements unique to each program/school (e.g. admissions essays, letters of recommendation, required test/test scores, transcripts, applications, etc.). Consult your prospective schools' website and admissions office to gather information.
To be fully considered for scholarships and assistantships, be sure to complete the entire process well before the printed application deadline.
Application
Complete the entire application for admission and pay the application fee. For most schools and programs, the application is online. Consider downloading a print copy to use for your rough draft.
Personal Essay
In most cases, you will be asked for a personal statement or essay. This is a very important element of the application that both demonstrates your written communication skills and defines your fit for the program. The best essays are clear, concise and passionate. Check out these resources for tips and strategies for writing an effective admissions essay.
Resume
An up-to-date resume is often required as part of the application process. More information on writing an effective resume. An up-to-date resume is often required as part of the application process.
Letters of Recommendation
Most schools will require several letters of recommendation. Choose individuals who can speak to your strengths as they relate to your program or discipline. Be sure to ask for your letters at least one month prior to your deadline. Tips on requesting letters of recommendation.
Entrance Exams
Most graduate and professional school programs require an entrance exam as part of the admissions process. It is important that you prepare and take the exam early in your application process to be assured that your scores will be available to your prospective school by the application deadline. It will also allow you the opportunity to retest if needed. Click on the links below for test dates, locations and registration.
Graduate School Prep by Kaplan
Take a FREE online graduate school entrance exam practice test from your personal computer
Visit: www.kaptest.com to choose a date/time that works with YOUR schedule.
