Applying for graduate school can be a nerve-racking experience, but knowing how to make your application stand out can make the process easier and less overwhelming.
Dean of the University of Mississippi Graduate School Annette Kluck advises students to gather as much information as possible about their programs of interest before they apply.
“You want to be sure that the expertise of the faculty, the careers for which the program trains its graduates and the feel of the program are good fits for your own goals and needs,” Kluck said. “These are the factors that will shape what it is like for you as a student in the program and influence what career opportunities are available to you upon graduation.”
Kluck also recommends that graduate school applicants connect with faculty and current students in their potential programs.
“Ask them how they got to where they are and what tips they have,” Kluck said. “Graduate students and faculty in the field you want to pursue are an excellent resource for information about the top programs and how to best position yourself to be a strong applicant.”
Millie Speed, a first-year graduate student studying curriculum and instruction, mirrored the sentiment of being well-informed about potential programs and forming relationships while studying as an undergraduate.
“I would, as an undergrad, do your research,” Speed said. “Talk to people and make connections with people because, in the end, they’re going to help you. There’s no one you’re going to go up to and ask for help that will say no.”
Keighly Stewart, a first-year graduate student studying counselor education, added that getting to know faculty members is important for obtaining the recommendations necessary for graduate school applications.
“Maintaining a good relationship with your teachers and ensuring they recognize your face and work ethic is crucial to remember if you plan on attending graduate school,” Stewart said.
Kluck explained that making a graduate school application stand out is dependent on the type of program because each program has different requirements.
“For research degrees, gaining experience conducting research even if in a different area or field (than your degree) is valuable,” Kluck said. “Such experience shows that you understand what is involved in a research-focused degree and are genuinely interested in that educational opportunity. For more applied degrees, having relevant experience is an asset.”
Building skills through real-world work opportunities is also something that Stewart recommends to anyone interested in graduate programs.
“A tip I would give to students planning to apply to graduate school is to gain experience in the field you wish to pursue while you’re still an undergraduate,” Stewart said. “Having that knowledge under your belt and on your resume makes you stand out to the faculty reviewing your application, increasing your chances of being accepted.”
Along with gaining relevant experience, Speed also recommends being an involved and diligent student, something she believes made her application stand out.
“Do everything until you can’t any more,” Speed said. “As an undergraduate it seems very tiring at points, especially junior and senior year, but never stop moving. Go to events, join the clubs, help the professors, do research and make friendships.”
Those interested in learning more about the graduate programs that the University of Mississippi offers can email gschool@olemiss.edu for more information.
