Are you an undergraduate student considering applying to graduate school? Here are some tips for a more successful application process.
First of all, relax! Take a deep inhale, and exhale. While the graduate application process can be daunting it’s important to remember that you're already accomplishing something monumental by graduating college – give yourself grace and pat on the back.
Second, come into the application process with an open mind. Unlike undergraduate programs, graduate programs have more requirements – some require work experience, exam scores, and a statement of purpose, so it’s important to be aware of the requirements prior to starting an application. Keep in mind that the admissions team not only wants to get to know you as a student, but as a professional, so be sure to highlight both academic and career/extracurricular experiences. Again, while the graduate application process is tedious, the requirements shouldn’t deter you from applying (shoot your shot!), and definitely start the application prior to the program's deadline.
Third, if you have time between wrapping up your last undergrad finals and finishing your graduate application, come visit us here in Waltham! We offer class visits, lunch with current students, and it’s a great chance to explore the Brandeis campus. For students that can’t visit campus, there’s also opportunities to connect with Heller virtually by scheduling a meeting.
Last, but not least, reach out to the admissions office – there are tons of people who are willing to answer any questions that you may have from graduate assistants (who are also full time students) to admissions counselors! At Heller Admissions, we’re a friendly group of people, and can always be reached by phone or email.
As a first-gen student, and as someone who came to graduate school straight from undergrad, I had no idea what to expect when coming to Heller. I had many questions: What were the classes like? Was homework going to be a challenge? How would I make friends in a new environment? What are the career outcomes? Would I be able to secure a job?
But what eased the transition was the fact that I had reached out to the admissions team, and deputy director of my program with all of my questions. I talked to admissions about my worries concerning the work experience requirement, I got to tour campus with my family, and even visit the classrooms where I would soon be learning in; but, I wouldn’t have done any of those things, if I didn’t ask.