About.com

Graduate School Papers and You

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 05:55:14 +0000

Graduate study is all about writing, as the thesis or dissertation is the ticket to graduation. However, lots of writing occurs well before the thesis and dissertation are begun. Most graduate courses require students to write term papers. Many beginning graduate students are accustomed to writing papers and approach them in ways similar to undergraduate papers. As students advance and near the end of their coursework, many begin to resent writing papers, feeling that they have already proven themselves as competent students. Both of these approaches are misguided. Papers are your opportunity to advance your own scholarly work and receive guidance to enhance your competence. Take advantage of this chance.

Tips for a Phone Interview

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:27:31 +0000

A reader asks: "I am having a graduate admissions interview - by phone. What do I do? What can I expect?"

An interview for admissions to graduate study - regardless of whether it's on campus or off - means that the admissions committee is interested in you. It's your opportunity to demonstrate your fit. The standard advice about interviews applies, but a phone interview adds a new dimension and challenge. Below are some tips for participating in phone interviews.

...

Read Full Post

Should You Bring Your Child to Class?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:24:43 +0000

Graduate student parents juggle many hats. What happens when they conflict? What is a graduate student parent to do when a child gets sick and must stay home from school? Or when a babysitter is unexpectedly unavailable? Should you bring your child to class? In the Chronicle of Higher Education, Ann Hassenpflug offers a vehement "No!" She offers some valid reasons, but many would disagree. Do you?

Asked to Write a Students' Third Letter of Recommendation?

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:24:14 +0000

It happens pretty frequently. A student who you've had in class once or twice emails or stops by your office to ask for a recommendation letter for graduate school. "I've done research with Dr. So-and-so and have done an internship with Dr. Other but I need three recommendation letters for grad school. Can you help me out?" Finding that third letter is often really hard for students. Like most instructors you'll likely feel torn by the desire to help but the knowledge that that a recommendation letter that is simply positive without offering details or information beyond that found in the transcript is not helpful to graduate applications. So what do you do? Should you agree to write the third (likely weak) recommendation letter? As a student, should you request it?

Stand Out

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 06:08:23 +0000

Graduate admissions committees have a tough job. They must split hairs - draw distinctions among many high caliber applicants. As you scramble to complete your applications, keep in mind the admission committee's job and you might be more likely to make it through the early rounds of the application to the interview stage (or to acceptance in programs that do not interview). How do admissions committees evaluate applications?

Thinking About Pursuing a Graduate Degree in History?

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:52:42 +0000

Are you considering a master's or doctoral degree in History? The decision to pursue graduate study is complex one that is part emotional and part rational. The emotional side of the equation is powerful. The pride of becoming the first in your family to earn a graduate degree, being called "Doctor," and living a life of the mind are all tempting rewards. However the decision of whether to apply to graduate programs in History also entails pragmatic considerations, including funding and career options. In a difficult economic climate, the question becomes even more perplexing.

Is It OK to Include a Photo With My Application?

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:10:35 +0000

You've compiled the application - essays, forms, and so on. How do you submit this material? Might a picture aid your application? Not likely. Learn more on how to present your application.

When Letters of Recommendation Don't Arrive

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:21 +0000

You did it all right: developed relationships with faculty, choose carefully, asked skillfully, and waited. What do you do when the graduate admissions office does not receive your letter of recommendation?

Ready for Taxes?

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:50:21 +0000

GradPSYCH, the American Psychological Association magazine for graduate students, offers answers to seven stipend, fellowship and internship income questions.

Also see: Types of Financial Aid for Graduate Students

Don't Forget the Grad Students on Your Admissions Interview

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:57:43 +0000

Interviewing for grad school? Without a doubt you need to wow faculty. Did you know that the grad students you meet are also evaluating you? Be forewarned as on interview day you're always under the gun.