Pathways to Graduate School

1. Know why you are going. The most successful graduate students know why they are in graduate school. Graduate school requires a great deal of self-motivation, and a clear focus and purpose will keep you on track.

2. Meet graduate students. Look for opportunities to meet local graduate students - it is a valuable opportunity to ask questions about your future. Look at the University of Minnesota Anthropology or Sociology department for lectures or other events. Check out the University of Minnesota InterVarsity graduate group and attend meetings.

3. Gather information about programs. Write or e-mail as many schools as possible, and gather course catalogs and descriptions of professors. Look through the information for courses, and for professors, that interest you. How to start looking? Consider location, and consider studying with professors (authors) who you admire.

4. Use Bethel resources. Career Services offers information about taking the GRE, and applying to graduate school. The LRC reference section contains books with similar information. Talk to your professors about their graduate experiences, as well.

5. Take the GRE. The Graduate Review Exam is required for many graduate programs. In some fields, additional exams are necessary. Taking the GRE is an important first step toward applying for graduate programs.

6. Attend professional meetings.