1. http://parasol.tamu.edu Graduate School: Applications, Finances, Succeeding Nancy M. Amato Parasol Lab,Texas A&M University

2. Grad School - Why? l Not just to avoid getting a job! l Interest in research l Want to learn topic in greater depth l Meet job goals/requirements

3. Grad School - Programs l Professional Programs –MBA –Law School –Medical School l Masters –Coursework Only –Thesis (research oriented) l PhD

4. Grad School - Applications l Start Early l GPA, GRE scores are important as filters –GRE General Test, GRE Subject test l Letters from Faculty –Not bosses –Best, profs you did research with l Statement of Research Interest l Other supporting information –Courses taken –Research projects/publications

5. Choosing a Grad School l Research Interests l Reputation by Area l Acceptance Rates l Financial Issues l Post/pre Acceptance - Visits

6. Life in Grad School l Coursework –Varies significantly –Occasionally leveling required –Usually 1-2 years –Deeper, more specialized courses l Research –Start early and get involved –Identify a faculty advisor/research area –First assist others, then take your own direction

7. Grad School - Paying for it All l Assistantships –TA, RA, etc. l Fellowships –External (NSF, NDSEG, etc.) –Internal l Outside Jobs l Loans…

8. Resources l Advice for Undergraduated Considering Grad School –http://polaris.gseis.ucla.edu/pagre/grad-school.html l CRA-W publication: The Graduate Student Information Guide –http://www.cra.org/Activities/craw/projects/mentoring/mentorWrkshp/gr ad-guide.pdf –Advantages of Obtaining an Advanced Degree –Choosing the Right Graduate School –The Graduate School Application Process –Financing Graduate Study (Sources of Financial Support) l Choosing A Ph.D. Program In Computer Science –http://www.acm.org/crossroads/xrds6-1/choosing.htmlhttp://www.acm.org/crossroads/xrds6-1/choosing.html l How to Succeed in Graduate School: A Guide for Students and Advisors (Parts I & II) –http://www.acm.org/crossroads/xrds1-2/advice1.htmlhttp://www.acm.org/crossroads/xrds1-2/advice1.html –http://www.acm.org/crossroads/xrds1-3/advice2.html