Graduate & Professional School

Students who are planning on pursuing a Master's degree or attending medical/professional school (ie. dental, chiropractic, phyiscal therapy, optimetry, pharmacy, veterinary, etc.) must start early by gaining relevant experience (shadowing, research, volunteer, work, and leadership) and preparing your professional portfolio. GPA is critical when applying to graduate programs.

The Health Professions Advising Committee (HPAC) mentors Pre-Professional students on several levels. The committee works closely with the Director of Health Professions to provide guidance for strategically becoming a competitive applicant, as well as guidance for the application and interview process. Many Pre-Health professional programs strongly encourage students to receive an evaluation from their institution's HPAC. Students may acquire a letter of evaluation from HPAC to accompany their application. Students typically begin their application process in their junior year. 

Learn more about HPAC

Crafting a compelling application is a pivotal step in securing admission to graduate school.  

To stand out among a competitive pool of applicants, consider the following tips: 

• Research Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and expectations of each program. Tailor your application to highlight how your academic and professional background aligns with the values and objectives of the institution. 
• Highlight Achievements: Emphasize your academic achievements, research experience, and relevant skills. Provide concrete examples of how your past experiences have prepared you for advanced studies in your chosen field. 
• Personal Statement Mastery: Draft a captivating personal statement that showcases your passion, motivation, and unique perspective. Illustrate how your background and goals align with the program, and explain how you plan to contribute to the academic community. 
• Strong Letters of Recommendation: Select individuals who can provide insightful and compelling recommendations. Ensure that they are familiar with your academic and professional accomplishments and can speak to your potential for success in graduate studies. 
• Prepare for Interviews: Some programs may require interviews as part of the selection process. Be ready to articulate your goals, experiences, and why you are a perfect fit for the program. 

• Application Deadlines: Be aware of deadlines for scholarships, fellowships, and assistantship applications. 
• Research Opportunities: Explore research funding opportunities related to your field of study. 
• Financial Aid Offices: Consult with the university's financial aid office for guidance on available funding options.
• Maintain Academic Performance: Many funding opportunities require students to maintain a certain level of academic achievement. 

Start Early:

Begin drafting your personal statement well in advance to allow time for multiple revisions. This ensures that you have ample opportunity to refine your writing and articulate your thoughts effectively. 

Understand the Prompt: 

Thoroughly analyze the prompt or guidelines provided by the institution. Ensure that you address all aspects mentioned and tailor your statement accordingly. 

Tell Your Story:

Use your personal statement as an opportunity to tell a story about yourself. Share experiences that have shaped your academic and professional journey, emphasizing key moments and lessons learned. 

Be Genuine and Authentic: 

Avoid clichés and generic statements. Be honest and authentic in expressing your motivations, passions, and goals. Admissions committees value sincerity and originality. 

Focus on Your Unique Contributions:

Highlight what makes you stand out. Discuss specific accomplishments, experiences, or skills that demonstrate your potential to contribute to the academic community. 

Connect Your Past, Present, and Future: 

Clearly articulate the connections between your past experiences, your current academic pursuits, and your future goals. Show how the program aligns with your aspirations. 

Show, Don't Just Tell:

Instead of merely listing your achievements, provide concrete examples and anecdotes that illustrate your skills and character. Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture. 

Address Weaknesses Thoughtfully: 

If you have any gaps in your academic record or other potential weaknesses, address them tactfully. Explain the circumstances and focus on how you have overcome challenges or grown from the experience. 

Tailor Each Statement:

Customize your personal statement for each program you apply to. Highlight specific aspects of the program that attract you and explain why you are a good fit. 

Be Concise: 

Adhere to word or page limits set by the institution. Admissions committees appreciate concise and well-articulated statements. Make every word count. 

Edit and Revise:

Seek feedback from career counselors, mentors, professors, or peers. Revise your personal statement multiple times to ensure clarity, coherence, and flawless grammar. A polished statement reflects your dedication to the application process.

Show Enthusiasm: 

Convey your genuine enthusiasm for the program. Explain why you are passionate about the field of study and how the specific program aligns with your academic and career goals.

Consider the Tone:

Maintain a professional and positive tone throughout your statement. Avoid using overly casual language, and remember that this is a formal document. 

Seek Professional Advice: 

If possible, consult with a career advisor, writing center, or professionals in your field. Their insights can provide valuable perspectives and help refine your personal statement. 

Graduate School Entrance Exams: 

• Examples include the GRE (Graduate Record Examination), GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), and LSAT (Law School Admission Test). 
• These exams assess skills such as analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and subject-specific knowledge. 

Medical School Entrance Exams: 

• The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a common entrance exam for medical schools. 
• It evaluates candidates' knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts. 

Law School Entrance Exams: 

• In addition to the LSAT, some law schools may also consider the GRE for admissions. 
• The LSAT primarily assesses skills such as logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and reading comprehension. 

Business School Entrance Exams: 

• The GMAT is widely used for MBA (Master of Business Administration) admissions. 
• Some business schools also accept the GRE as an alternative. 

Undergraduate College Entrance Exams: 

• Examples include the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and ACT (American College Testing). 
• These exams assess high school students' readiness for college and are used by many universities in the admissions process. 

Professional Certification Exams: 

• Some professions require specific certification exams for entry, such as the bar exam for law graduates or the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam for aspiring accountants. 

Key Considerations for Entrance Exams: 

Preparation: 

• Develop a comprehensive study plan well in advance of the exam date. 
• Utilize study materials, practice tests, and review courses to enhance your preparation. 

Registration and Deadlines: 

• Be aware of registration deadlines and procedures for the specific exam you are taking. 
• Register early to secure your preferred test date and location. 

Test Format and Sections: 

• Familiarize yourself with the format of the exam and the types of questions you will encounter. 
• Understand the different sections and allocate your time accordingly during the test. 

Score Interpretation: 

• Understand how scores are calculated and interpreted for the specific exam. 

• Some exams may have different scoring scales for various sections. 

Retake Policies: 

• Know the policies regarding retaking the exam if needed. 
• Some exams allow multiple attempts, but there may be restrictions on the frequency of retakes. 

Test-Taking Strategies: 

• Develop effective test-taking strategies, such as time management and question prioritization. 
• Practice pacing yourself during timed practice tests. 

Accessibility Accommodations: 

• If you have specific accessibility needs, inquire about the accommodations available for the exam. 

Application Process: 

• Understand how the exam results factor into the overall admissions process. 
• Some institutions weigh exam scores alongside other components like GPA, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. 

• Visit our Interviewing resource page for interviewing tips.
• Schedule an appointment with a Career Counselor to prepare for graduate and professional school interviews. 

Graduate Assistantships: 

• Teaching Assistantships (TA): Involves assisting professors with teaching responsibilities, grading, and conducting tutorials. 
• Research Assistantships (RA): Involves working on research projects under the supervision of faculty members. 

2. Scholarships and Fellowships:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic achievements and overall excellence. 
• Diversity Fellowships: Aimed at promoting diversity by supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds. 
• Field-Specific Fellowships: Offered by organizations or institutions within a particular field of study. 

3. Grants and Research Funding:

• Federal Grants: Programs like the Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) may be available to eligible students. 
• Institutional Grants: Some universities offer grants to support specific research projects or initiatives. 

4. Work-Study Programs:

• Federal Work-Study (FWS): Provides part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need. 

5. External Funding Sources:

• Government Agencies: Some government agencies offer grants and fellowships for graduate students conducting research in specific areas. 
• Nonprofit Organizations: Many nonprofit organizations provide funding for graduate students pursuing research aligned with their missions. 
• Professional Associations: Some associations offer scholarships and grants to students in their field. 

7. Employer Sponsorship:

• Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship for employees seeking advanced degrees relevant to their positions. 

8. International Funding:

• Global Scholarships: Various organizations and governments provide scholarships for international students studying abroad. 
• Country-Specific Programs: Some countries have specific scholarship programs for international students. 

1. Start Early:

• Begin exploring REU opportunities early in your undergraduate career to ensure you have ample time to research, prepare, and apply. 

2. Utilize Online Resources:

• Explore dedicated websites and databases that list REU programs across various disciplines. Examples include the National Science Foundation (NSF) website, Pathways to Science, and the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR). 

3. Network with Professors and Advisors:

• Engage with your professors and academic advisors to seek guidance on potential REU opportunities. They may have information about programs aligned with your academic interests. 

4. Attend Research Seminars and Conferences:

• Attend seminars, conferences, and workshops related to your field of study. These events often provide information about ongoing research projects and potential REU opportunities. 

5. Utilize University Resources:

• Visit your university's career services or research office. They may have information about internal or external REU programs and can assist with the application process. 

6. Join Professional Organizations:

• Become a member of relevant professional organizations in your field. These organizations often share information about research opportunities and conferences that can lead to potential REUs. 

7. Explore Department Websites:

• Check the websites of academic departments within your university. They may have announcements or links to REU programs related to specific disciplines. 

8. Connect on Social Media:

• Follow academic institutions, research organizations, and professionals in your field on social media platforms. Many organizations use social media to share information about research opportunities. 

9. Create a Strong Application:

• Tailor your application materials, including your resume, cover letter, and letters of recommendation, to highlight your skills, academic achievements, and passion for research. 

10. Prepare for Interviews: - Some REU programs may require interviews. Practice answering common questions about your research interests, academic background, and career goals.
11. Follow Application Guidelines: - Carefully read and follow the guidelines provided by each REU program. Pay attention to deadlines, required documents, and any specific application instructions.
12. Be Open to Various Locations: - Consider applying to REU programs in different geographic locations. Being flexible about the location can increase your chances of finding a suitable opportunity.