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Before You Apply, Ask Yourself Some Questions

Do you really want to go to graduate school? Are you ready to go now? If you are thinking about graduate or professional school, you might want to ask yourself the following questions:

Self Knowledge

• Why am I applying?
• Do I have a continued interest in my subject area? Why?
• Have I researched a variety of graduate and professional school programs and career fields?
• What are my career goals?
• What is my financial situation? What do different programs cost? What aid is available?
• Am I burned out academically or motivated to continue my studies for another one or more years?
• Am I using graduate school to postpone the job search process?
• Should I take some time off before starting a graduate program?

Field Knowledge

• Do you have accurate, reality-based information about your field of interest?
• Have you talked with professionals to see if an advanced degree is necessary for entry into the field?
• If an advanced degree is important, are there several options available in terms of programs?
• If there are several options available, is it wise to work for a year or two and then decide which route to pursue?
• Do you have related experience through an internship, externship, or summer job?

Program-Specific Knowledge

• Have you explored schools that offer programs related to your field?
• Have you talked with people in the field to get their suggestions on schools/programs?
• Do you know the admission requirements for schools/programs of interest?
• What program is best suited to assist you in reaching your long-term career goals?