Aaron C. Wade Staff Writer Students had the opportunity to learn about graduate school options at informational sessions Wednesday, Sept. 20 and Thursday, Sept. 21. During the free discussions, attendees learned about the differences between graduate and undergraduate schools, career planning, admission requirements and types of graduate assistantship. As undergraduates, students are learning a broad field of research and most curriculums are prescriptive, said Deb deLaski-Smith, interim associate dean for Student Affairs at the Graduate School.
Graduate assistance is provided to help students decide what program to take.
Most departments are divided into sub-concentrations that match a particular student s interest. Students complete a program study plan with advisers by compiling a list of courses that must be taken in order to earn the degree. However, changing graduate programs is not as simple as switching majors for undergraduates. There is debate whether students pursuing further education should immediately enroll in graduate studies or wait and start working first. Some advantages to going directly to graduate school are that the commitment is respected by faculty, students reach their educational goals more quickly, and you remain visible to the faculty, said Sarah Kersey-Otto, manager of Career Planning.