Success in Graduate Programs: Tips and Tricks
If you are currently in or are considering a graduate program, congratulations! The good news is that even if you have not yet enrolled, you are already on your way to success because you are prioritizing continued education, a decision which is not always easy but is always, in my experience, rewarding. Whether you are on your journey or still considering your path, I would offer a few tips as advice for those pursuing or considering the pursuit of a graduate degree.
Stay Organized
For some, staying organized might be unpleasant, but it will save so much time and angst. First, make sure you are organized in terms of your program and degree requirements, keeping in touch with your advisor to ensure that you are on track with your courses and know your plan and how it aligns with your goals. Then, ensure you are also keeping track of details such as tuition payments, course registration, ordering course materials, etc. Finally, determine a method to stay organized once each course begins. Many graduate students are also working full-time jobs or managing other responsibilities, so staying organized will help ensure you can prioritize all of your work to meet course deadlines.
Establish Connections
Many people experience amazing connections during their undergraduate years, often even leading to life-long relationships. In graduate school, though, connections can fall by the wayside, not by design but because of competing priorities, especially for students in part-time programs. Making it a priority to establish connections during graduate school, though, can make a profound difference. It can be easy to hop in and out of an in-person class, rushing in after work and racing out to return to other responsibilities; for online courses, it can be even more of a struggle to make connections. Make a point to establish relationships with your professors, mentors, and supervisors. They can help you even after your class or program ends, supporting you toward your career goals, writing letters of recommendation, or providing you with resources to assist you as you continue your path.
Creating connections with peers is equally or even more powerful. Having classmates to ask questions and receive support can make every class so much more enjoyable and valuable. Even if you are not meeting for class in person, don’t be afraid to reach out via email and just start making connections!
Use Your Resources
I truly believe your connections with others will be some of your best resources. However, it’s important to utilize other valuable resources that your university makes available to you, as well. I recently became aware of research workshops that are available for graduate students, and offerings like that can be easy to ignore or put off until a later date – which often turns into never – but taking advantage of the resources offered helps you stay connected, feel supported, and ultimately find more success. Resources also include financial aid or budgeting support, career resources, and even self-care opportunities offered by the university. As a student, you have access to so many valuable resources, so don’t limit yourself to only attending class or even just academic support when there are so many options available for Concordia University Chicago (CUC) students.
Know Yourself, Your Habits, and Your Needs
Most importantly, forget the first three tips. Okay, I don’t mean that, of course, but it’s essential, especially for busy graduate students, to trust yourself and implement what works best for you. Focus on your needs and what works for you. For organization, for example, I print out everything and write lists. I love the feeling of physically crossing something off. Others might prefer a digital list or an app.
This small example just shows that although it’s important to take advice from others and make the most out of your experience, you also need to customize your decisions, so they meet your needs. Make time to consider what will work for you and what you need to do in order to have the most valuable experience possible.
Why Choose Concordia University Chicago for Your Graduate Degrees?
After I graduated from CUC with an M.A., I did not anticipate returning. Yet, just a few years later, I decided to return to pursue another degree. So, I can earnestly say that CUC is a great place to consider for your grad degrees. For me, I most appreciate the support and flexibility. I always know that I am supported in my educational journey. The programs, course offerings, and requirements are clear, and I know that I have so many advocates to whom I can reach out with questions and for guidance. Perhaps even more important for many graduate students is flexibility.
My master’s program was an in-person cohort program. At one point, my cohort had to switch to a different day for class, and I was unable to meet because of a prior weekly commitment on that day. My advisor worked with me to allow me to meet with a different cohort for that one course so I could honor my commitment and not fall behind the course sequence. My current program is an online, asynchronous program, which in itself offers flexibility, and I know that I am still receiving a high-quality education.
Next fall, I will need to take a pause during one of the sessions for personal reasons, and my advisor has already helped me figure out how to stay on track with my graduation requirements. Concordia University Chicago offers an amazing academic experience and always prioritizes supporting students and their needs as they work to meet their educational goals amidst their busy lives. It is truly a great place to pursue your education.
Interested in continuing your education? Check out Concordia University Chicago’s master’s programs and doctoral programs and take your next step today!