As winter turns to spring, many students are putting the finishing touches on their graduate school applications. That can be a daunting process, but the University of Guelph-Humber’s Career Services department is here for you.
With the due date for applications to many fall programs coming up, UofGH Career Coordinator Allison Scully has some tips for making your application shine.
Expect a different process from your undergraduate application
It’s important for students to understand that putting together a graduate application is a more demanding process than applying for an undergraduate program. “Students are overwhelmed by it,” Scully said. “Compared to applying to university, it’s a big undertaking. Sometimes students are not aware of how much work goes into it.”
Research
If you’re interested in a certain program, read all that you can about it. The best place to start is a thorough visit to the website of every university you’re considering. “Thank goodness for the internet,” Scully said. “Every piece of information you need, from dates to costs to steps you have to take, will be available on a university’s website. There will be contact information for people to reach out to for more information.”
Start early
Ideally, students might be considering post-graduate education plans as early as first year. That way, you can start building relationships with instructors who could become references later. “It’s good to start looking at this early so you know what to do. That way, you don’t find yourself in your fourth year freaking out,” Scully said.
Be organized
Scully recommends creating a spreadsheet with all the schools you’re considering applying to, then keep it updated with your progress and identify any important due dates or paperwork required. “Nothing would be worse than having sheets of paper everywhere and not knowing where anything is,” she said. “Have it all in one spot and be prepared.”
Meet with Career Services
You’re not in this alone. Book an appointment with a Career Services Coordinator at career@guelphhumber.ca or visit during drop-in hours. “We can walk you through the process, help calm you down and get you organized. We can reach out to schools if you’re struggling to get people to respond to you,” Scully said. “We’re here to help.”
Learn more about Career Services at the University of Guelph-Humber.