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.

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?

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

Orientation to Resources Information Opportunities

Professional development Funding Socializing

Advocacy Policy Awareness and Enforcement

What can I expect from the School of Graduate Studies?

Review the Academic Policy Information 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

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?

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?

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?

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?

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 The Write Place

http://www.stcloudstate.edu/writeplace/

Secrets to Success

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.