Planning for Graduate School

[deannam]

Hey!

 

I am entering my third year of a anthroplogy/archaeology program, and am thinking about applying to graduate school in the future. Is there a specific plan of action I can take to ensure acceptance to a graduate program (i.e what type of extra curriculars should I be pursuing?)

 

Thanks!

[bioarch_fan]

Looks like we're in the same boat.  I'm starting my third year of undergrad this year and I've been preparing for grad school for the past, at least, 6 months.  There's no sure fire way to know what to do to get accepted into grad school.  The best thing that you can do is have a good GPA and do well on the GRE.  I'm going to start studying for the GRE this month so I can take it in the Spring.  Also, contrary to what you may think, if you don't have an amazing GRE score you can still get accepted to some schools.  Just as long as you have a strong academic background: GPA, letters of recommendation, statement of intent, writing samples, etc.  I have talked to a professor readily about this because I'm not the best with taking tests so I'm afraid that I won't do well on it and will ruin my chances of getting into good grad programs.  They do however look at EVERYTHING in your application to award financial aid.  Something else you might think about is if your university offers it, to start doing an honors thesis.  I'm starting mine this year/next summer and that will enhance your application a lot because it will show your dedication to your specific area of interest and will show how well you can do research, which is what grad school is mostly about.  If you can do internships I would also suggest those.  I'm going to start an internship at our local historical society and I'm hoping that will increase my chances.  Since you're doing Archaeology, I would definitely suggest doing at least one field school if you haven't yet.  While it's not important to have that done, it would look very good on your application because that's one less thing you have to learn about in grad school.  Hope that helped a little.  Feel free to message me if you want to talk more.

[sarab]

Research is important, so you might want to consider doing an honors thesis on something at least a bit related to what you want to pursue in grad school. Also, if your school offers field schools, you should participate if you can, this includes local projects as well as studying abroad. Studying abroad can give you that "cultural experience", so if you can afford it, go for it.

I would also really start thinking about specific grad school plans: what area do you want to focus on? This can help you when deciding what graduate programs you want to apply to. Once you determine that, start looking for programs and getting acquainted with the research of the professors. The more time you have to research it and read it, the better.

Also, establish good relationships with your professors. They will be the ones who will write out letters of recommendation, so start now. If you decide to do an honors thesis and/or participate in a field school, you can become close with the professors, and that's always a plus.

The rest is basic, have a good GPA, start studying for the GRE if you want to, things like that.

 

Good luck!

[screencheck]

Research is important, so you might want to consider doing an honors thesis on something at least a bit related to what you want to pursue in grad school. 

I would say this is one of the most important things you can do. All the faculty members and graduate students in my department said that research along with strong letters and strong SOPs are the way into a grad program. Things like GPA and GRE are important, but certainly don't seem to be the most important aspects of your application (that doesn't mean don't study for the GRE though). 

[mp429]

I think that your GRE does not matter that much, as long as you're above a certain threshold, however, this could be school-dependent. I feel similarly for GPA. It is important, however, that you have other really strong areas of your application if you have a lower GPA. Also, be willing (either in personal statement or the interview) to explain why your GPA was lower than what you believe are your abilities. I believe that independent research, a variety of different but relevant internships/work experiences, clarity in your interests and what brought you to have those interests, good letters of recommendation, and research fit with your potential adviser are most important. Numbers can tell you something, but they come nowhere near telling you everything. This is just what I found with my application cycle this year! Good luck.

Edited August 6, 2013 by mp429