How do I help my students choose a graduate program?

Undergraduate students need to understand that in graduate school they will specialize in one discipline. Deciding which field to pursue can be a difficult decision for some individuals. If a student wishes to continue his or her studies at the graduate level but is unsure about which field to choose, you can help him or her to make this crucial decision by asking some basic questions:

• What do you do well ?
• What interests you most ?
• What subjects have you studied ?

Encourage students to gather information about the field they are considering, assess their qualifications for this field, consider existing and projected career opportunities, and explore the degree program options available to them.

Your perspective as a faculty member, and as someone with experience in the field, is extremely valuable to students as they develop their educational and career goals. Your guidance early in the process will help to ensure that students make informed, intelligent choices about graduate education - choices that will have a profound impact on their lives for years to come.