If you’re about to start your first year of grad school while teaching full-time, here’s a real-world look at what you can expect, plus a few tips to help you stay afloat and even enjoy the process.

The Workload is No Joke

Graduate school is a big commitment, and while the workload can feel heavy at times, it’s definitely manageable. You’ll be juggling lesson plans, grading papers, faculty meetings, and parent emails— plus writing research papers, participating in discussion boards, and keeping up with weekly readings. The first few weeks might feel like a blur, but don’t worry, you will eventually find your footing.

Most graduate programs are designed for working teachers like you, so they understand your schedule, and assignments are usually manageable as long as you stay on top of them. However, procrastinating might seem harmless at first, but it’ll make the workload feel a lot heavier later on. Plan for a steady, consistent pace of work every week rather than cramming everything in on Sunday nights.

A good rule of thumb is to block out at least six to ten hours per week for coursework depending on the program and the semester. Some weeks will be lighter, but during midterms and finals, you’ll be grateful you made studying a regular habit.

Time Management is Your Best Friend

If time management hasn’t already become second nature to you as a teacher, it will now. Balancing a full-time teaching job with graduate classes means you’ll need to get comfortable with planning your weeks with intention.

Some teachers swear by Sunday night planning sessions where they lay out the school week and grad school tasks side-by-side. Others prefer using planners, apps, or color-coded calendars to keep everything straight. Whatever your style is, you’ll quickly find that being proactive about your schedule saves you a lot of stress.

It’s also important to build in time for yourself, not just squeeze in 10 minutes of Instagram scrolling before bed. You will need some real time to unwind and de-stress. Whether it’s a quick walk, a workout class, or simply vegging out with your favorite show, protecting your mental health will make a huge difference this year.

Topics Will Feel Both Familiar and Brand New

One of the best parts about going back to school as a working teacher is how the coursework immediately connects to your real-world experience. Topics like instructional design, assessment strategies, educational theory, leadership, and classroom management will come up often in your classes and you’ll find yourself nodding along because you’ve seen it all in action.

But don’t be surprised if you’re challenged to think differently, too. Graduate courses often ask you to dive deeper into the “why” behind what you do. You’ll explore research-based practices, new trends in education, and philosophical foundations that may change how you approach your students and your teaching.

Grad school isn’t just about learning new strategies, it’s about understanding the bigger picture of education and your role within it.

Be Ready to Get Serious About Studying

You might assume that because you’re already an educator, studying will be a breeze. And while you definitely have an advantage when it comes to organization and reading comprehension, grad school does demand a different kind of focus.

Expect to do a lot of reading, not just textbook summaries, but think – academic articles, research studies, and policy papers. Critical reading skills will be essential because you’ll need to analyze, compare, and synthesize ideas rather than just memorize information.

You’ll also likely need to brush up on academic writing, including APA or MLA formatting, depending on your program. Many schools offer writing centers, virtual tutors, or workshops for students who need a refresher. Don’t be afraid to use these resources, they exist to help you succeed.

Try and find a study routine that works for you early on. Some people work best in quiet blocks of time, others like to do their reading during their lunch break. Experiment until you figure out what works best for you.

You Will Build a Strong Professional Network

One of the many benefits and probably the most valuable part of graduate school is the network that you’ll build. You’ll meet people who teach in different districts, grade levels, and even states. Some of them will become your friends, others your collaborators, and people you can lean on for advice and support for years to come.

Professors too will become mentors and can offer insight, encouragement, and even help open doors for future leadership opportunities. It’s worth taking the time to genuinely participate in discussions, both in class and online. Don’t just check the box, actually, try and build real connections. These relationships are often just as important as the diploma you’re working toward.

You May Get Imposture Syndrome

If you ever find yourself thinking, “Who am I to be doing this?” you’re not alone. Many first-year grad students, especially working teachers, wrestle with imposter syndrome. You might worry that you’re not smart enough, not experienced enough, or not doing it “right.”

The truth is a lot of people feel that way. But remember, you belong here just as much as anyone else does. Graduate school is a place for learners, and you are showing up exactly as you should. Trust the process, ask questions when you need to, and remind yourself that struggling with new material doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re growing.

This Experience Will Shape You for the Better

By the end of your first year of grad school, you’ll look back and be amazed at how far you’ve come. Not just in what you know, but in how you think, reflect, and advocate for yourself and your students. Graduate school pushes you to think critically, challenge your assumptions, and deepen your understanding of the educational world.

You’ll likely return to your classroom with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a bigger-picture view of what’s possible for your students and for yourself. While it won’t be easy, and you have moments where you wonder why you ever signed up for this, make no mistake, it’s worth it.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post What to Expect in Your First Year of Graduate School (As a Teacher) appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

You may see how you can contribute to others and not just in your classroom. Maybe someone has encouraged you to move up to another level of (assistant principal, instructional coach, etc.) because of the leadership or talent you displayed. You may want to give yourself future options. Or perhaps you love school so much you want more.

Odds are, when you have made this decision, there is some “life” going on in your part of the world. You are likely married, and you have a child or children of your own. It is just as likely that you have established yourself as a strong teacher, and there are hours of work you put in to make your students successful. Thus, adding graduate work to your life will require finding the time to do the work necessary to get that second degree or certification.

Begin With the End in Mind

As you start your graduate journey, this author should assume (without making a donkey of himself) that you have a purpose in this journey. Maybe your goal is to be a principal, or maybe your goal is to stay in a curriculum strand and be an instructional coach or curriculum director, but either way, this will dictate what graduate degree you will be working toward. Some go for a master’s in education, educational leadership, curriculum, etc. If you are making this big decision, have in mind what your end goal will look like.

Who Can Help You Get Answers

Throughout your graduate work, assignments will require you to work with your principal or a trusted administrator (especially if you are interested in administration). You will need to consider who you will ask to be your “mentor” or supervising administrator. This person will likely need to have been in their role for two or three years, pending what the qualifications are for your program.

If you are looking at the curriculum route, is there a Chief Academic Officer or individual like that in your district who you can go to for the assignments you will have? When I was working on my superintendent certification, there was only one person in my district who qualified to be the supervising administrator. Had something else changed, I would have gone outside the district. Have this bench built in your head.

Support System

In addition to the “academic support system” discussed above, you may need an at home support system to help you complete the graduate work. For example, will there be a babysitter that comes to keep your children busy while you work for two or three hours on your coursework?

Will your spouse be willing to take the kids for most or half of a Saturday while you work at home? In your head or in your family, what does your support system look like that will help you do what you have to do to achieve the goal of that graduate degree?

Money

Another consideration for your graduate degree is how you will be paying for your next degree or certification. Have you saved for this for a long time? Is this easily doable with your salary and your spouse’s salary? Is your income low enough that you might qualify for a grant? Do you need to take out a loan? Does the college where you are going or working online have special assistance or grants for educators?

Most of the time, educators are paying most if not all of the graduate bill for their next degree out of pocket. Part of the reason this needs to be considered is that the next job you get with your degree, that raise may be needed to pay off that loan or credit card that paid for your next degree. Thus, make sure you have a plan for paying for your degree or the steps for after you get your degree. The last thing you want is to pay for two years (or three) of work and then to be strapped with that debt with no plan to take care of that obligation,

When Will You Work

This section could easily be a subsection to your support system.

• Will you be staying after school to get your coursework done?
• Will there be a night each week when you sit down and do all the work?
• Will there be time on the weekends between your kid’s soccer games for you to get to work?
• Will you stay up later after the kids are in bed because you were a night owl in college anyway?

Granted each week and month will look different, but you need to have a plan (even if it is in pencil) for when the graduate work will take place. In my experience, graduate work is mostly just that, work that needs time to get done. Your usual battle with this is volume and not so much rigor. You will find that many of the things you are doing on your campus already (professional learning communities, department chair, mentoring other teachers, etc.) will fit into many of the assignments and reflections that will be completed in conjunction with your coursework.

Since you have already started a successful teaching career, your choosing to pursue a graduate degree after you have been teaching indicates you have the academic acumen to be successful. Your biggest battle is now more about the infrastructure to achieve your goals. Successful teachers become successful graduate students.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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Although online learning or eLearning has become the norm when it comes to teaching and learning, it is still important to find ways to be successful with online classes. Online learning enables students to learn at a distance and offers a variety of classes and course content. For those who learn online, the main platform that is used as an instructional tool is a Learning Management System (LMS).

This allows the instructor to facilitate classroom lessons, articles, and assignments. A few examples of Learning Management Systems include D2LBrightSpace, Schoology, BlackBoard, Moodle, and Google Classroom. To ensure a successful learning experience there are tips for taking online classes.

Create a Dedicated Learning Space

Creating a dedicated learning space is an important aspect to a successful online learning experience. This can be in a college, public library study room, or home office. The key is to have a dedicated space that is quiet and has access to the internet. For students who want to study in groups, a library is a great location to study together and complete assignments. This allows for collaboration and the students to hold each other accountable.

This creates a sense of normalcy for study sessions and group collaboration. For those who want to complete assignments individually, a home office is ideal. Whether the device is a laptop or desktop, creating a personal space and using an effective device for completing assignments is beneficial. With the vitality of learning management systems in the modern environment, having a dedicated space allows for the effective use of educational technology and time management. While using a learning space, it is also important to manage time effectively. This can be done by using apps, personal calendars, and to-do lists.

Embrace Time Management Apps

For most college students, time management can be a struggle. Both undergraduate students and students engaged in graduate studies should look for effective time management strategies. This can come in the form of using time management apps. One of the most important aspects to learn in school and with online classes is time management. Be sure to plan long term assignments out ahead of time.

Paying attention to due dates for homework, tests, and quizzes will help build a calendar of when important dates approach. Reading the instructor’s syllabus gives the student an understanding of how to plan out time effectively. Time management is a personal journey and helps develop discipline and organization. Using Google Calendar, sticky notes, and a handwritten calendar all help to stay organized. This helps with combating procrastination and increases motivation with each passing grade.

Combat Procrastination

Whether it is turning in a report by a deadline, studying weekly for an up-and-coming exam, or working on a group project, procrastination can be a part of the process. Procrastination is a time management issue and also a part of dealing with the stress of difficult assignments. Still, finding ways to beat procrastination that will result in higher grades and an improved sense of accomplishment is important.

Combating procrastination involves:

• Planning ahead.
• Finding time to take breaks.
• Finding innovative ways to stay motivated to complete online tasks.

Consider breaking down large assignments into smaller chunks and if there is a comprehensive exam in an online class, choose specific days and times when to study as the exam approaches. For exams, it is important to be aware of the dates for exams and when is the best time to study and find resources to prepare for the exam. Many online courses have platforms that help with scheduling exams and finding ways to give the student time to prepare. One such platform is ProctorU.

This platform allows students to schedule online exams for a specific date and time. When done effectively with studying, combined with using classroom resources, the student will be prepared to take an exam on ProctorU. This also helps professors due to the fact that the instructors can see when students take their exam and can plan grading for the entire class subsequently.

Seek Support and Resources

For many students, school can be stressful, but the rewards are great once the class or degree is completed. Finding mental health coping strategies and support resources are critical. When it comes to taking online classes, some students can do very well while others may need extra support and resources. For undergraduate and graduate students who go to universities in person but also take online classes there are resources.

Visiting the library and academic centers or seeing the professor during office hours all provide support and resources. Additionally, for students who are in a fully online program, most institutions have online tutoring and support with students’ individual needs.

Gale eLearning Solutions has a website that includes multiple resources to help online students including access to academic libraries, online resources from public libraries, and national databases. Having access to resources online and through class materials gives students extra help while taking online classes. Communicating with professors about priorities and classroom expectations is important to keep up with assignments. Furthermore, having a group of peers to collaborate with brings other mentoring opportunities, resources, and diverse thoughts that can enhance the experience of taking online classes.

Balance Screen Time with Breaks

Taking online classes involves:

• Being intentional about outcomes
• Finding a comfortable environment to learn
• Using support services and resources

Taking regular breaks, finding ways to stay physically active, and focusing on positive mental health is important. These tips will ensure that taking online classes will be a rewarding experience. As education continues to change, so do the needs of students and the way teachers and administrators deliver content. Using effective strategies to complete online classes promotes 21st-century learning and the diversity of educational technology.

Interested in pursuing an online degree? Check out our 100% online graduate degree programs and get started today!

The post Tips for Taking Online Classes appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Aside from an engaging and interesting introduction through a cover letter, a resume must include accurate and current contact information, along with education and/or state teaching licensure requirements. Once those two key facts are recorded on the resume, a teacher candidate should include as many of the following skills that are relevant to the job the candidate is applying for.

Problem Solving

A teacher can expound upon times in other jobs when initiation was used to solve problems while working with students. Examples of this could be when working with students of different academic levels or students who speak various languages, and how these differences relied on the teacher to create a plan to meet students’ needs that may be different than traditional methods.

Another example could include how a teacher solved conflicts while working with other teachers. When describing solid problem-solving skills, the teacher must include the presence of the characteristics involving initiative, positive thinking, and confidence.

Instructing and Presenting

These skills are paramount for a teacher’s resume because these are the core to a successful educator. How the candidate describes an instructing style can be one area of the resume to set the candidate apart from other candidates. The teacher wants to include which of the five instruction styles the candidate relies upon: lecturer, demonstrator, hybrid, facilitator, or delegator.

A first-year teacher candidate needs to consider carefully which of the teaching styles will fit the needs for the job being applied for. The skill of presenting should support the instruction style. When describing presenting skills, the candidate can involve technology skills and communication skills. An important consideration when describing presentation skills should be how to reach the four different types of learners, visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading and writing learners.

Curriculum and Instruction

School administrators are looking for teachers who have skills in delivering effective curriculum and engaging and impactful instruction. The skills you list regarding curriculum and instruction should include how your teaching meets students’ needs, engages students, encourages higher-order thinking, and aligns with the school, school district, and Department of Education’s core values and expectations.

Management Skills

One of the top interview questions for a teacher candidate is to explain classroom management techniques. Now this question is a challenge for a first-year teacher, so it is important for the resume to include strength in setting routines early in the school year and determining how the class will create class norms to follow all school year and develop a classroom family environment. Veteran teachers’ resumes should be more specific with management skills for the class but should also indicate an ability to be flexible if students do not respond to a classroom management technique.

Communication Skills

A potential employer wants to know if the candidate can communicate with parents and how does the candidate communicate with parents. A resume can reflect communication style, frequency, and method. If a teacher uses a specific newsletter style or makes phone calls for positive behavior through the school year, both examples would be good to include in a resume.

Technology Skills

In today’s world of teaching and learning, another important skill that will help you land a teaching job is technology skills. Students today have had face-to-face learning, online learning, and a hybrid model. Knowing how to effectively use a Learning Management System (LMS) shows the person hiring you that you have skills that will impact students today. Students today have had technology in their environment for their whole life. This is why it is important to show how you can deliver instructional content both in the classroom and in a virtual setting. Learning how to use LMS such as Google Classroom, CANVAS, Moodle, and Schoology are a great way to stand out when a person is reviewing your resume. It is crucial that you show that you are up to date with today’s best practices when using learning management systems and engaging students.

Emotional Intelligence

This skill involves a candidate sharing hobbies, involvement in social groups, and volunteer experience in the resume. Emotional Intelligence is a skill observed in the interview more than by reading a resume. However, a resume can provide an employer the ability to determine the possibility of a candidate’s empathy skills and social skills based on the descriptions of activity involvement outside of the classroom.

Time Management

Describing this skill can include leadership opportunities such as a grade level or subject area chairperson. The potential employer can presume the candidate’s ability to manage time if a candidate has been given several opportunities that not only involve leading a classroom but as a leader among other colleagues. Once again, a first-year teacher will need to describe strength with time management by sharing a desire to be a leader or include examples of leadership while a college student.

Collaboration

How does the candidate work with others, has the candidate worked well with other colleagues? In a resume the teacher can describe opportunities in student teaching when working with others was a valuable and positive experience.

Classroom Management 

School principals especially want to know your skills with classroom management. don’t have proper lessons planned out, a teacher who knows how to monitor student learning, and effectively use transitional times in the classroom this can lead to distracting behaviors with students and a loss of instructional time. Showcasing your skills with delivering instruction and leading students in their learning is a stand out that is very important to have on your resume.

School administrators have specific things they look for when they interview you. What school administrators look for include your classroom management experience, ability to work well with others, and how well you communicate and collaborate with others. Along with curriculum, instruction, and classroom management, technology skills are important to securing your teaching job.For 21st century teachers and students, this is a sill you must have.

Ability to Work Under Pressure

This skill involves successfully meeting deadlines. Another way to illustrate a candidate’s ability to work under pressure is by describing all the many tasks handled while student teaching. When student teaching, a first-year teacher can include the many daily demands accomplished to provide a quality classroom experience for the students.

Creativity

Teachers should describe the unique touches the candidate has offered in student teaching or previous teaching jobs. In a resume this is the area when a teacher candidate can highlight special accomplishments, creations of new activities in a grade level that turned into traditions, or programs initiated by the candidate to improve the students’ experience in a grade level or special area.

There are so many skills for a teacher to include in a resume leading to a consideration for a face-to-face interview and a potential teaching offer.

Education and Certifications

One essential skill to put on your resume is education and certification. When administrators and human resource directors look at a resume it is important to show your education experience and certifications. The education degree can range from Bachelors from undergraduate school or at the graduate level a Masters or Doctorate. Certifications in the K-12 educational world range from Elementary, Middle Level, and Secondary Certification. For elementary teachers, the elementary certification usually is grades K-5.

Middle level certification is from grades six through eighth, and secondary is from grades ninth through twelfth. Elementary certifications is more general and gives the teacher to teach a wide range of subjects to students in the elementary school setting. Middle and secondary certifications are more specialized and focus on specific content areas such as Math, History, English, Business Education, and Physical Education (P.E.).

However, in many states, Physical Education and Special Education certifications often bring a K-12 certification. Obtaining a certification in school counseling or education administration is an option for teachers who want to eventually move outside the classroom. Regardless, having the proper up to date educational experience and certifications is a must on any professional teacher or educator resume.

References

The references you should include should be ones that will reflect your ability to teach and showcase your network of colleagues. If you are a new graduate from college, you should include your professors or teachers whom you completed your clinical experience with. As your teaching career grows, you will have even more relevant references such as school principals, department heads, and school district directors. Your references will change over time, but it is important to use the most recent ones and references that can give an accurate assessment of your skills to your potential employer.

Whether you are new to education or a veteran, it is important to continue to make yourself marketable in the education field. Finding ways to stand out compared to other candidates is an effective way to land the first or next teaching job. By detailing your education experience, skills in curriculum and instruction, classroom management, and technology, you will be one step closer to finding the school that is the right fit for you.

Teachers never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post The Most Important Teacher Resume Skills appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

When applying to graduate school, it’s common to put together a portfolio of documents which showcase your background and experiences. Portfolios often contain a resume, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose essay, and official university transcripts. But did you know that many graduate schools (but not all!) also require an interview as part of their application process? Don’t be caught off guard! Research the requirements for your school and program (more on that below).

Interviews will look different depending on the school and program for which you are applying, but they generally share some similar components. Your interview might be with one person or with a panel of staff members from the college and will probably contain a variety of questions regarding your program and subject area of study, as well as your background (personal and academic) and your goals and experiences. The best way to ace your grad school interview is by preparing for it beforehand so that you know what to expect and are comfortable answering the questions. The more you think about the questions and prepare your answers ahead of time, the less nervous you’ll be and the more likely you’ll respond with answers that appropriately reflect your qualifications.

Mastering Your Graduate School Interview

1. Do your research.

I can’t stress this enough: research the school, the program, the classes, the instructors, etc. What are your reasons for wanting to be accepted? You want to make sure you’re comfortable when you’re discussing why this particular school and program is a good fit for you. Your interviewer will be impressed if you can name specific details, such as class descriptions and professor names that stand out to you. Make sure you’re knowledgeable about hot topics like the ethics and social values of the school, as well as any important accolades and current events. The admissions committee will be happy that you did your “homework” prior to the interview, and it will set a good precedent for your academic abilities.

2. Practice common questions.

After doing your research, this is the next most important step to prepare for your graduate school interview. Interviews can be extremely nerve-wracking, but the more you prepare, the more comfortable you will feel. You can prepare by studying lists of common interview questions and then practicing how you would respond to them. You don’t want to sound rehearsed, like you’re reading off a paper sheet, but you want to ensure your responses reflect your qualifications and experience.

It’s much easier to do this if you brainstorm responses ahead of time instead of trying to think on the fly. Some common interview questions are:

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why did you choose to apply for our program?
• What are your career goals?
• How can you contribute to our program?

3. Showcase your research and accomplishments.

I’m sure you’ve been thinking about how you can benefit from a graduate program, but your interview team will be interested in learning what you can contribute to their program as well. The interview is a great time to highlight any research you’ve been doing and any academic accomplishments.

This is another reason why it’s important to think through your responses ahead of time; you might forget some key achievements if you’re nervous and trying to think on the spot. Your training and skills are absolutely relevant to the program for which you are applying, and they are also directly correlated with the credibility of the university. Once you graduate you will be a spokesperson for the university in your chosen field, and so they need to see that you will help them to build their brand positively.

4. Prepare your own questions.

Just because you’re being interviewed doesn’t mean that you’re the only person who should be asking questions. It’s completely acceptable, and encouraged even, to prepare a list of questions ahead of time that you want to have answered by the university team. This will help you get a better feel for the school and the program and show that you are invested in your educational future.

Here is a list of common questions you might want to ask during your interview, including:

• Do you offer any scholarships?
• What makes your program unique?
• Do you have any mentoring opportunities?
• What are graduates of the program doing now?

5. Showcase your communication skills.

Communication skills are important for pretty much every job and educational opportunity, and participating in an interview is a great way to showcase yours. Most likely your interviewer will be looking to see if you can communicate both verbally and nonverbally, as well as note how friendly you are, whether or not you demonstrate respect and empathy for others, and how confident you are, among other things.

This will help them determine how well you will be able to follow directions, work with others, and represent the school. You want to make sure you sit up straight, look whoever is speaking in the eye, speak clearly, listen and pay attention when it’s not your turn to talk, and otherwise engage in the conversation.

6. Know your goals.

Know your “why.” Separate yourself from the other applicants by being confident in your career goals and communicating them effectively. Explain to the team exactly why you want to join their program, and what you plan to do once you graduate with a degree. This will set you apart from other students who may be more non-committal about their future plans and who may not be taken as seriously by the interview panel. It will also demonstrate your commitment to the program and to your future career. Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to ace your graduate school interview!

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post A Guide to Mastering Your Graduate School Interview appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Graduate school is a challenging journey that demands vast amounts of dedication, perseverance, and commitment. As graduate students navigate through advanced courses, research projects, and other academic responsibilities, the importance of organization becomes crucial. Graduate students are typically those that are maintaining a full-time career while furthering their education.

Although most graduate schools are understanding of this, the workload from both employment and college courses can be extremely overwhelming and draining if not managed properly. In addition to this, many graduate students are also juggling family obligations and responsibilities from household duties, the raising of children, and sustaining healthy relationships. Because graduate students “wear many different hats,” it is imperative that they employ organizational skills to better manage and maintain their personal and professional lives.

Staying Organized in Graduate School

To assist in success in graduate school and beyond, let us explore several tips and strategies that will aid in the organization process.

Time Management and Study Schedule

One of the cornerstones of organization in graduate school is efficient time management. With the multitude of academic tasks and work or home responsibilities, it can be overwhelming for students to keep track of deadlines and commitments. This is where a well-structured study schedule comes into play. Creating a study schedule allows graduate students to allocate time for different subjects, assignments, and research activities.

By setting aside specific time blocks for studying, research, and personal activities, students can achieve a balanced lifestyle that prevents burnout and enhances productivity. Additionally, graduate students can maintain a healthy work, school, and home life balance. As a mother and doctoral student, I set aside time each night after my daughter went to bed to work on my courses. Spending quality time with my child is extremely important to me, and I did not wish to sacrifice any time with her if at all possible. This study schedule allowed me to uphold my relationship with her and have quiet time to work or study each night.

To-Do Lists 

To-do lists are extremely useful tools for managing daily tasks and assignments. They provide a clear overview of what needs to be accomplished and help prioritize activities based on their deadlines or importance. These lists also assist in ensuring that nothing is missed or forgotten! As graduate students juggle coursework and other various duties, to-do lists serve as direct, visual reminders that keep them on track and focused on their goals. To-do lists also help direct the topic of work to be completed per a study schedule to ensure that no time is wasted or utilized incorrectly.

A Designated Study Space

An organized environment is optimal for continued success and progress in graduate school or any learning endeavor. A cluttered or disorganized study environment can hinder productivity and increase stress levels. Designating a dedicated and organized study space is crucial for effective learning. A clutter-free and well-organized study space promotes focus, concentration, and a conducive atmosphere for studying. This space should be equipped with all necessary materials, resources, and technology to facilitate efficient learning and research.

Digital Organization and Online Calendars

In today’s digital age, online tools and applications offer exceptional advantages for organizing personal and professional commitments. For instance, online calendars provide a centralized platform to track assignments, deadlines, meetings, and other important events. They can be synced across devices, ensuring that students never miss an important date. Furthermore, digital tools allow for the integration of reminders, which can be set in advance to notify students of upcoming due dates and tasks. This digital organization not only enhances time management but also reduces the likelihood of overlooking critical deadlines.

Break Up Tasks for Efficiency

Graduate school assignments and projects often involve intricate details and substantial research. Breaking these tasks into smaller, manageable components enhances efficiency and prevents procrastination. This approach not only makes the workload appear less daunting but also allows students to focus on one step at a time which leads to higher-quality work. Breaking up tasks also plays into the importance of time management as assignments reach completion through planned out steps rather than at the last minute!

Long-Term Planning: Beyond the Immediate

While daily and weekly organization is essential, long-term planning is equally vital for graduate students. Long-term planning involves setting all-encompassing goals for the semester, year, or even the entire graduate program. This can include academic, research, and personal objectives. By creating a roadmap for their academic journey, students can allocate resources, time, and effort more effectively. Long-term planning helps graduate students visualize their progress, identify potential challenges, and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Personal Growth and Balance

Beyond the academic benefits, organization in graduate school contributes to personal growth and work-life balance. When students effectively manage their time and tasks, they can allocate quality time to personal activities, hobbies, and self-care. This balance is instrumental in preventing burnout, enhancing mental health, and fostering a well-rounded and fulfilling graduate school experience.

It is apparent that organization plays an indispensable role in the success of graduate students. The complex demands of advanced coursework, research projects, and academic responsibilities require effective strategies for time management, study techniques, and task organization.

Whether through structured study schedules, comprehensive to-do lists, dedicated study spaces, or digital tools, organization empowers graduate students to excel academically while maintaining personal well-being. By embracing organizational practices, students embark on a transformative journey that not only propels them towards academic achievement, but it also nurtures their personal growth and prepares them for the challenges of their current or chosen professions.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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Research Programs/Specializations 

Not all graduate schools (and programs) are created equal and considering the amount of time and money you’ll be investing in a program, you really owe it to yourself to do your research ahead of time to ensure you find a school and a program that’s a good fit for you. Make sure you choose a graduate program when applying to graduate school that will lead to your preferred career. You may also want to look into the faculty (what are their teaching styles and preferred assessment methods, where have they been published, do their values align with your own?) as well as the location of the school and how much it costs.

Fees especially can vary greatly from school to school, so do your homework and ensure that you can afford the program before you go to the trouble of applying to graduate school. In addition, we recommend you do some research into the course structure of the program (is it entirely online, hybrid, or in person? How many classes are you expected to take at one time?) You’ll never regret doing this work prior to applying to graduate school; you’ll only regret NOT doing it if you get accepted into a program and find out later that it’s not a good fit for you.

Start Early 

Timing is crucial when it comes to applying for graduate school, so you’ll want to begin the application process well in advance to ensure you have enough time to prepare. Most likely you’ll have to send in various supporting documents along with the actual application, and these can take some time to gather and submit. You should allow up to eight weeks for official transcripts and exam scores to arrive, and it’s polite to give your professional recommenders at least four to six weeks to submit their letters (more on that later).

In addition, you’ll probably need to write a personal statement and/or a statement of purpose essay, and that’s not something you want to rush through. Finally, if you plan on pursuing financial aid, you should allow yourself at least four to six weeks to familiarize yourself with that process and complete the necessary paperwork. Applying to graduate school is definitely not something you can do in a weekend, so plan accordingly!

Prepare for Standardized Testing 

Some schools will require you to pass a standardized test, such as the GRE, before admittance into a program. Prior to applying you’ll want to ascertain if this is a requirement for the university you’d like to attend, and if it is, plan to prepare far in advance. The GRE, especially, is not a test that you can cram for in a weekend. You’ll need time to research the test format, determine your baseline and target scores, study GRE vocabulary, take practice tests, etc. It’s also a good idea to research the school to find out the average testing score that students earn who have been accepted into the program so you have an idea of where you stand and how much you need to prep. Standardized test scores can make or break your admission chances, so don’t sleep on this requirement when applying to graduate school.

Request Strong Letters of Recommendation 

“Letters of recommendation are excellent when it comes to showing an admissions committee why you would be a good candidate for a program. They are an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to demonstrating the full picture of who you are as a person: a student, an employee, and a contributing member of society.”

You should ask people who know you well in a professional capacity, who can attest to your work ethic, integrity, and other factors that will be important to a graduate admissions committee when applying to graduate school. Ensure you give them enough time to write the letter (four to six weeks are recommended) and share any requirements for information or templates put forth by the university.

Write a Strong Personal Statement 

The personal statement component of a graduate school application can be particularly stressful if you’re not a fan of writing. However, this is not an area to skimp on or leave for the last minute. A personal statement essay is a great way to show the admissions committee your personality, and to distinguish yourself from their other applicants.

Prepare for the Interview

Does your school require an interview prior to admission? If so, similar to the personal statement essay, this could be a great way to set yourself apart from the crowd IF you interview well. One way to ensure you do is by researching and practicing the interview process. Familiarize yourself with common questions that you might be asked and think through your responses to them. Here are some sample questions and answers you can use to give yourself a head start. If you typically become nervous during interviews, practice calming techniques like deep breathing strategies. The more you practice, the more natural you’ll feel, and the less nervous you’ll be.

Have your friends and colleagues act as the interviewee and then give you constructive feedback on how you can improve. You’ll want to appear confident, even if you’re nervous, and practice is a great way to truly feel confident in your abilities. Also, be mindful of your nonverbal communication, such as eye contact and body language. Make sure you look the person in the eyes when you shake their hand, sit up straight throughout the interview, smile, and be present.

Follow these tips when applying to graduate school and you’ll be accepted into in no time!

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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A letter of recommendation is more complex than simply writing a casual email to a friend, however. You’ll want to think closely about who you ask, and then make sure they know the correct format for writing the letter.

Are Letters of Recommendation Always Needed?

The short answer is no, letters of recommendation for graduate school applications are not always needed for graduate school. You can show a college or university that you would be a good fit for their programs, including transcripts, a statement of purpose essay, a personal statement essay, and a resume.

Finding people who are willing to write recommendation letters can sometimes be challenging, and many schools recognize this and choose to waive this requirement in favor of one or more of the other items listed above. It’s up to you to determine what the requirements are for your preferred program; most schools will list them on their website, or you can call and speak to an admissions counselor.

Why Are Letters of Recommendation for Grad School Important?

Although it’s not always easy to find people who are willing to write letters on your behalf, it’s absolutely worth it to try. Letters of recommendation are excellent when it comes to showing an admissions committee why you would be a good candidate for a program. They are an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to demonstrating the full picture of who you are as a person: a student, an employee, and a contributing member of society.

Who should you ask to write letters of recommendation?

You’ll want to find people who can speak positively about your credentials and abilities; this may be an employer, a professor, or someone else you’ve worked closely with. Avoid asking close friends or relatives because their opinions may be skewed. In general, schools won’t accept letters from people with whom you’re related, anyway.

When asking someone to write a letter for you, consider the following factors:

• Do they have time?
• How do they know you, and do they know you well enough to speak on your behalf?
• Are they familiar with your academic experiences?
• Are they familiar with the program for which you’re applying?
• Can they speak positively on your integrity, character, work ethic, and other qualities that will help you stand out from the other applicants?

What information do you need to provide your recommenders?

• The name of the school(s) and program(s) for which you are applying
• The deadline for your application
• A current resume and/or most recent transcripts
• Some notes about your educational and career goals, as well as any accomplishments you want them to address in their letter
• Directions for how the recommender should submit the letter

What a Good Graduate School Letter of Recommendation Looks Like

In general, a good letter of recommendation will be positive, detailed, and written from people directly in your field. Some schools will even provide templates for people who are writing letters of recommendation, so make sure you look into that prior to asking someone to write a letter for you. If there is no template, the recommender should follow the format as if they were writing a business letter. Make sure to include a salutation at the beginning, and then break it up into sections.

The first section should explain how you know the person for whom you’re writing the letter. You’ll also want to explain why you’re a qualified candidate to write a letter for them, i.e.: you work closely with them doing research, you oversee them at work, etc.

The second section should be all about the person you’re writing the letter about. You’ll want to discuss all their positive qualities, their character, and why you think they would be an excellent addition to the program for which they’re applying. Try to use specific examples of times you directly saw them exhibit the characteristics you’re talking about in a professional setting.

At the end of the letter, write a brief summary of the things you already stated, and add in some information about how you can be contacted with questions (your phone number, email address, etc.)

Are you ready to start applying to graduate school? Hopefully this article has made the recommendation letter requirement a little less daunting. Yes, letters of recommendation for grad school can be tricky, and it may be time consuming to find people to write them on your behalf, but once you do they have the power to make your application stand out among all the others!

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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The Importance Research Plays in Graduate School

Research plays a vital role in graduate school as it establishes the foundation of your academic and intellectual growth as well as contributes to the knowledge you have in the specific field you are studying. Through research, you can dive deeper into your interests and explore any unanswered questions about the field of study you are conducting. Engaging in research enables you to attain expertise in your field and establish a reputation as a knowledgeable authority, enhancing your credibility along the way.

The rigorous research that you conduct in graduate school equips you with the skills that will prepare you for your future career in your given field. Additionally, research allows you to connect with other researchers or professionals in your field. This allows you to network and build relationships with people that may benefit your career in the future. If people notice that you have strong research skills, then it may open doors for you for further opportunities in the future.

Enhancing Research Skills

Throughout your academic career in graduate school, you may have many opportunities to develop your research skills. Here are a few effective methods to help enhance your skills.

Organize your Information

One of the ways that you can enhance your research skills is by being organized. As you process and collect your information you must find ways to organize it so it will be easier to retrieve it. You can start by categorizing different resources and putting them into folders or “bookmark” them on your computer. Outline your objectives, key findings, and any questions you have to help you create a roadmap of where you want your research to go. Part of graduate schoolwork is collecting and analyzing data so keeping this organized will help you retrieve it when needed. Additionally, adopting organizational strategies will save you time and help you streamline your entire research process.

Stay Up to Date With Current Trends in Your Field

Staying informed about the latest developments and current trends in your field of study can only benefit your research. By staying up to date with the latest theories, studies, and methods, you’ll be able to identify what areas of your field need further investigation, giving you more research ideas. Knowledge of current research also shows that you’re aware of your field’s current state, demonstrating your passion and dedication to your area of study. By staying informed you’re enhancing your research skills and the quality of your research.

Read, A LOT!

Extensive reading is an important component of enhancing your research skills because it exposes you to various perspectives in your field. Immerse yourself in books, scholarly articles, studies, podcasts, research papers, videos, and anything relevant to your field of study. Be actively engaged while reading by taking notes, using visual aids, highlighting, underlining, or relating material to your own experiences to help make it more meaningful to you. Consider different viewpoints as you read different pieces to help you gain a comprehensive understanding and perspective of the research field you’re studying.

Perfect your Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills

Sharpening your analytical and critical thinking skills will only benefit your research abilities. These essential skills enable you to evaluate data, identify bias, and make informed decisions about the data you are researching. By honing these skills, you are empowering yourself to conduct well-informed impactful research. To enhance these skills, challenge the validity of the information by asking questions and seeking evidence. Actively listen during lectures, participate in class discussions, and regularly seek feedback to gain insight and refine your skills.

Master Research Methodologies

Invest the time to learn effective research methods because it enhances your research skills. Mastering methodologies such as quantitative and qualitative approaches as well as having a firm understanding of each methodology will help you with your specific research projects in graduate school. Discussing these methods with professors and peers and attending workshops or classes can also help to enhance your skills.

Collaborate with Mentors and Peers

Teaming with experienced mentors and classmates is another great way to enhance your research skills. Both mentors and experienced classmates can provide you with valuable guidance and special insight into the most effective research practices. Mentors have extensive knowledge in their field which you can learn from to develop a deeper understanding of your research. Whereas with your peers you can engage in discussions and learn different perspectives that may challenge your assumptions. Collaborating with mentors and peers allows you to learn new techniques and methods and provides you with constructive feedback that may improve your research and help enhance your research skills.

Learning to enhance your research skills in graduate school will be a journey. However, the process will equip you with the tools you need to excel academically and professionally. By learning to organize your information, staying up to date with current trends, reading, sharpening your analytical and critical thinking skills, learning different research methods and connecting with mentors and peers, you will have the opportunity to nurture and develop your research proficiency. By embracing these methods, you can position yourself as a valuable contributor in your respective field of study.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post Enhancing Research Skills in Graduate School: Effective Methods and Resources appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

A teaching statement (also referred to as a teaching philosophy) is a personal narrative reflecting one’s thoughts, beliefs, and experiences as an educator. It entails various components that outline teaching methods, best practices, and techniques in which to engage in continuous growth and learning. Any educator (regardless of their amount of time in the field) can create a teaching statement.

Why are Teaching Statements Important? 

Teaching statements can be vital to the overall success of an educator. To produce a teaching statement, teachers must be extremely self-aware and mindful of their performance in the classroom. By doing this, they can properly self-reflect and implement necessary changes that ultimately influence student achievement. The creation of a teaching philosophy can also assist teachers in planning and directing future instruction and initiate the pursuit of additional resources.

It also allows teachers to evaluate themselves and their practices to determine their overall effectiveness and attitudes concerning the classroom. Additionally, teaching statements are beneficial when attempting to acquire a teaching position or a different role in the educational system as they inform others about your personal viewpoints on teaching before ever witnessing your performance in the classroom.

What are the Elements of a Teaching Statement? 

Once the determination has been made that the creation of a teaching statement is necessary, the process of developing and organizing must begin. As mentioned before, several items can be included, and it is up to the individual teacher to decide which items are most suitable and useful for their philosophy. Below are some ideas to assist in the planning and creation of a personal teaching statement.

Introduction

To begin the teaching statement, start by introducing your personal teaching beliefs. Discuss why you selected teaching as your profession and why it is important to you. You may also include information about your specific teaching style and how it benefits your students in the classroom.

Body

For the body of the teaching statement, a plethora of items may be included; however, it is important to select items that are the most meaningful to you personally as an educator.

Outline Effective Instructional Practices

How do you approach instruction? Do you implement more teacher-centered instruction or student-centered instruction? Inform the reader how you operate when introducing content. Be sure to describe the structure of an average lesson in your classroom. In addition, it would be helpful to include information about what the students are doing throughout the day (i.e. hands-on activities, real-world applications, and so on).

Describe Your Classroom Environment

To fully grasp your teaching style and beliefs, those reading your teaching philosophy need to feel completely submerged in your classroom climate. Describe daily routines and other unique elements. How do you motivate students? Are students generally on task and engaged? What overall feeling do students and visitors feel upon entering the classroom? Use these questions as a starting point for informing readers (and yourself) about the health and environment that students work in on a daily basis.

Acknowledge Your Strengths

Self-reflection is such a huge component of developing a teaching statement. To reinforce positive classroom actions, you should identify the areas in which you perform well. You can do this by thinking about lessons that were received well by students, revisiting feedback from evaluations completed by administrators, etc. This is your chance to “shine” and describe what works well for you and your students!

Pinpoint Your Weaknesses

On the flip side, to improve teaching abilities, we have to be willing to openly and honestly identify areas in which we struggle. When referencing failed lessons, try to discover what went wrong. Look back at evaluation feedback and locate what area(s) they suggested to improve. Do not be afraid to share your weaknesses and include them in the teaching philosophy as this type of disclosure makes you appear more relatable and willing to seek change.

Understand Student Achievement

How do you assess student learning? What do you do with this information? Does it direct future instruction, and do you tailor teaching to meet the needs of students based on the data? Those reading your teaching statement will more than likely want to know if you are proactive in your role in the classroom. If students are struggling, do you reteach content and change your approach to best meet student needs? Describe how the assessment process looks for your students and how you utilize that information to direct instruction.

For all of these elements, including personal examples you have experienced is extremely important. Whether you are seeking improvement as an educator, applying for a different position, or pursuing a graduate degree, those reading the teaching statement will want to understand and believe in the information you are transferring to them. Including real examples makes your thoughts and teaching beliefs more relevant and gives them an idea of how you conduct yourself in the classroom. It is also wise to conduct the text from a first-person perspective as it reflects one’s personal experiences.

Conclusion

First, one of the best ways to conclude a teaching statement is to determine how your teaching philosophy enhances student learning. Next, you may decide to close your thoughts by developing professional goals that you would like to achieve. It is important that the teaching statement becomes a working document that redirects your focus as an educator to achieving student success and achieving personal goals. When this occurs, readers understand that you are flexible and intent on the idea of improving your teaching methods for years to come.

Additional Tips

To make the teaching statement more relatable and effective, it is important to reflect and report upon areas in which you excel. For instance, if you implemented an amazing unit in math where students used unique and exciting materials, describe it in full detail.

Another item that should be considered in detailing how your idea of teaching has changed or evolved with more time and experience. Are you open to new teaching and learning methods via technology and other resources? If so, explain steps you have taken or are willing to take to initiate such additions.

When formulating your personal teaching statement, it may be beneficial to survey fellow educators, administrators, or your students to understand your performance in the classroom better.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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