1. Being a Successful Graduate Student  As a new graduate student, you are likely wondering:  What is graduate school like?  What should I expect?  Can I really do this?  This presentation will provide a brief overview of what to expect and the resources available.

2.  It will be different than your undergraduate experience.  You can expect:  To be self-directed  Academic rigor  Lots of reading and writing  Collegial relationship with fellow students  Opportunities for new learning and development  Conduct and present research  Select topics of individual interest for study  Participate in department and college committees  And more… What is Graduate School like?

3.  USA – world leader in graduate education  Graduate school is the gateway to your profession  Develop knowledge, skills, and professional networks  Establish your expertise: What do you want to do?  Teach  Research (group or individual)  Service  Learning occurs in and out of the classroom  Seminars & Lectures  Professional Organizations & Conferences  Cultural Events The Graduate School Experience – You’re Not In College Anymore

4.  Orientation to Resources  Information  Opportunities  Professional development  Funding  Socializing  Advocacy  Policy Awareness and Enforcement What can I expect from the School of Graduate Studies?

5.  Review the Academic Policy Information  http://bulletin.stcloudstate.edu/gb/policies/default.asp http://bulletin.stcloudstate.edu/gb/policies/default.asp  Standard of Scholarship –  Graduate students are required to maintain a 3.00 GPA in your program and in your courses overall to remain in good standing. Students who fall below a 3.00 are given one semester to come back to a 3.00 GPA or risk being dismissed. This means you need to work to get A’s and B’s in your courses.  Repeated Coursework –  Repeated courses are averaged together to get a grade at the graduate level, that means if you get a D, even if you repeat the course and get a B, both grades remain on your record and impact your GPA. Policies to Be Aware Of

6.  Your department wants you to succeed. They are investing time and energy in your education and you will represent SCSU when you leave.  Seek help and guidance  Take advantage of department resources:  Professional development activities  Conferences  Seminars  Know “Who’s Who” in your department  Departmental Contacts  Department Chairperson  Department or Program Secretary  Graduate Director or Coordinator  Graduate Faculty Adviser What can I expect from my Academic Department?

7.  Mentoring relationship  Academic and professional guidance  Appointments to meet in person, opportunities to be in touch via email and telephone.  We recommend that you see your adviser at least twice a semester to:  discuss your progress;  schedule your courses;  develop your culminating project;  plan your practicum or internship.  You will need to initiate these meetings. What can I expect from My Graduate Advisor?

8.  Professionalism  Preparation and timeliness  Office hours or available meeting time  A syllabus listing the expectations of the course, deadlines, and contact information for the professor.  Respect  For you, your work, and your time  Challenge  Grades/Marks based on your merit - Collaboration rather than competition What can I expect from my professors?

9.  Preparation and participation in class  Timely completion of assignments  Respect for faculty work and time  Use of syllabi  3-4 hours of preparation outside of class per credit hour (e.g. 3 credits ~ 9 to 12 hours)  Keeping on top of the reading  Maintain academic integrity – all work should be your own. What is Expected of Me?

10.  Plan ahead and stay on top of your work  Get to know other students  Address concerns early  Use your Resources  School of Graduate Studies  Your academic advisor and program faculty  Miller Learning Resource Center  http://lrts.stcloudstate.edu/library/default.asp http://lrts.stcloudstate.edu/library/default.asp  The Write Place  http://www.stcloudstate.edu/writeplace/ http://www.stcloudstate.edu/writeplace/ Secrets to Success

11. Remember…  You were accepted to your program because your faculty members believed you have the ability to succeed.  You are in charge of your education.  If you feel overwhelmed:  Your peers may as well, talk to your fellow students.  Talk to your adviser, your professors, or stop in at Graduate Studies.  Use your resources and ask for help.