What influenced your decision to go to graduate
school?
♦
How did you explore graduate
schools?
Do you have any tips related to
the application process?
Did you obtain a Graduate Research/Teaching
Assistantship? If so, what was that application process like?
What influenced your decision to go to graduate school?
After talking to professors, elementary teachers and principals about
the job market and what schools are looking for in candidates, I decided
to specialize. This gave me an additional certification, as well as my
Master's and the opportunity to learn more. I was very interested in
reading and teaching kids who had more difficulty. I was fascinated by
the strategies that can be used to help them and all learners in the
classroom, so I decided to apply to graduate schools.
How did you explore graduate school?
I narrowed my selection by reputation of program, location, and
availability of graduate assistantships. I spoke with and asked for
advice from GCC professors. With their guidance and my research, I knew
the kinds of questions to ask when I met with the director of the
graduate programs of the school to which I applied.
Do you have any tips related to the application process?
Similar to the interview process, form a relationship with someone in
the department. They are there to help and can alleviate some stress
when it comes to applying. There are many connections, so don't be
afraid tell people you know where you are applying and what you would
like to study. For every school I applied to, I had a "go-to" person
whom I trusted (GCC professor, friend from home, teacher).
Did you obtain a Graduate Research/Teaching Assistantship? If
so, what was that application process like?
I had an assisantship in the college writing center. Everyone should
look into assistantships! They alleviate cost, give you experience, and
help form connections with others. After you seek out the forms needed,
check off any area in which you have experience (religious groups,
sports, activities, community service, academics, teaching, etc). After
that, sometimes a letter of recommendation is needed. Once all
paperwork is completed and filed, call and make sure it arrived. Let
the staff know you want it! I then had to interview for the position in
person. I don't know if this is required for all assistanships, but it
was for both schools I applied to.
More information about
Lauren's experience with Moon Area School District and
employment-related tips
Back to Alumni Profiles
