Success in Graduate Programs: Tips and Tricks
Applying for a graduate program is a challenging decision as many of those who have aspirations for higher education already have full plates. I myself had an established full-time teaching position in addition to caring for my family of six, which in itself is another full-time job.
Deciding to take on another responsibility took some consideration, but in the end, it meant I was able to pursue my dream career as an educational administrator as well as have higher earning power, which would ultimately benefit my family. Through my graduate program, there were several components that aided in my success while juggling other personal and professional responsibilities; these tips and tricks are outlined below.
Setting Goals
Understand the requirements for the position of interest. This begins by performing research in the field of interest and taking note of the position’s expectations for educational and job-related experience. Review several job openings to ensure you obtain the correct degree and start considering how you would obtain the experience necessary for the position. Several of the graduate programs at Concordia University Irvine have job-related experience requirements built into the program, which will help set you up for your dream career once you graduate.
Now that you clearly understand the requirements for your career of interest, start setting those goals! Aim to write a single SMART goal, one that is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, and place it visibly so you can read it daily.
An example could be, “I am going to obtain my Preliminary Administrative Service Credential as measured by passing each eight-week course block consisting of two classes, one core and the other an experience-based practicum course, which will take me a total of 14 months.”
You may also want to include the career for which you are aiming, the desired location of the position, and any other relevant information that will help keep you motivated.
Budgeting
While graduate school is not cheap, it is a means to higher earning potential. The money that is invested in your education will be recouped once you are in a new position. One of the biggest tips for budgeting is to create a spreadsheet that includes monthly obligations and income. Use this to determine how much you can reasonably afford each month toward your tuition and budget for educational loans. As a graduate student, you are able to apply for a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), to help with your tuition.
Although this is an unsubsidized loan, meaning you are responsible for the interest accrued during your time enrolled in school, it is a low-interest loan that will allow you to reach your educational and professional goals. Use a Student Loan Interest Calculator to determine how much you would like to pay each month as this will help you budget and give you a clear picture of the required monthly payments once you graduate. Lastly, consider the pay increase you will have once you obtain your degree and land your dream job. In many cases this salary increase will allow you to pay off the loan in a manageable amount of time giving you more financial freedom.
Time Management
As a busy working individual, it is important to remember how you will manage the time required for your degree while also meeting other professional and personal expectations. As a mom of four, time management was a crucial component to my success in the graduate program. Initially, working on the weekends was the best time to complete assignments. However, I quickly found that this would not be sufficient nor reasonable for the posted assignments.
I had to ensure I was reading daily, actively posting on discussion boards throughout the week, and preparing to complete main research assignments. The eight-week courses were helpful in my time management as I was able to map out what needed to be completed each week to stay on top of the work. Although I set daily task expectations for myself, the time that was required to complete the tasks was minimal. This daily focus on learning allowed me to complete work more quickly and retain much of the obtained knowledge.
Why You Should Choose Concordia University Irvine for Your Grad Degree
Concordia University Irvine (CUI) is the best choice for your graduate degree program as they are student focused and aim to prepare you for your career of choice. Whether your program is in person or online, the staff ensure you are part of the CUI community, making you feel included and important. There are several opportunities to be involved in campus events, even while being an online-only student, including joining clubs and other student organizations that you can include in your portfolio and resume.
In addition, the professors are effective communicators, provide timely feedback on coursework, and create valuable assignments that help you grow in your career. CUI also designs graduate programs with working individuals in mind. Their programs have eight-week long sections, consisting of one core class and one practicum course to earn professional experience. Each core class has five to six main assignments and one to two weekly discussion board questions.
The discussion boards give students an opportunity to think about problems of practice in their field while also building a community within the cohort of students. Upon graduation, you will be able to apply for any desired position and have the knowledge and experience to be the top candidate for the position.
Interested in continuing your education? Check out Concordia University Irvine education graduate programs and take your next step today!