to Graduate School
What’s keeping you from reaching your goal? Meredith experts share strategies for overcoming barriers between you and an advanced degree. By Melyssa Allen
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our Meredith undergraduate degree provided a firm foundation for professional success. But if you want a career change or are interested in additional training to help you move ahead, a graduate degree may be the logical next step. For many prospective students, there are roadblocks – the application process, finances, or fitting school into a busy life – that keep them from pursuing a graduate degree. Assistant Director of Career Development Amy Losordo, who advises students about graduate school options in her role in Meredith’s Academic & Career Planning office, says the biggest roadblock to graduate school is often the prospective student herself. “Sometimes they don’t know themselves well enough. They haven’t figured out who they are and what they want,” says Losordo, who recommends extensive research into graduate programs before applying to school. 12
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Do Your Research
Online research is a good place to start, but Losordo advises going beyond Internet research and talking directly with current students in programs that interest you. “Gather that information through networking rather than just reading,” Losordo says. “Try to talk to current graduate students. Get their insiders’ perspective.”
informational interviews in one place. “Talk to people who have the career you want. Ask about their background. Find out what education they have, and ask their opinion of what school is best for the field,” Losordo says. “Professionals can also tell you about trends in their field – what new programs are they looking for in order to beef up skills?”
“Talk to people who have the career you want. Ask about their background. Find out what education they have, and ask their opinion of what school is best for the field.” —Amy Losordo, Assistant Director of Career Development Conducting informational interviews with professionals in the field is another action Losordo recommends. Attending a networking event or graduate school fair is beneficial because it is a chance to make connections and conduct several informal
MBA Director Page Midyette recommends visiting graduate school campuses before choosing a program. “Visit prospective schools so you can get a true feel for each campus and program setting,” Midyette said. “Most graduate programs