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Graduate school: Taking the next step with confidence

The Grad School Panel: Alia Coleman, Kailey Jean Karder and Leigh Ann Fisler
The Grad School Panel: Alia Coleman, Kailey Jean Karder and Leigh Ann Fisler. Photo via Scarlett Rose Binder

If you’re contemplating graduate school, it’s natural to have questions.

Where should you go? What should you study? How do you successfully prepare for this major step?

These questions can feel overwhelming, but rest assured, the answers are out there. To help ease these concerns, Psi Chi and Psychology Club hosted a Grad School Panel on Tuesday to provide guidance to prospective graduate students.

“I hope that students were able to learn more about the application process and get tips to be successful when they apply, as well as have honest conversations with current graduate students to better understand what grad school could be like and what responsibilities they’ll take on,” Alexis Oliver, a senior psychology major and club president, said.

Moderated by Oliver, the panel featured three current or former graduate students and one alternate, each offering unique perspectives on the challenges and rewards of grad school. The diverse experiences of the panelists provided attendees with a well-rounded “Grad School Crash Course.”

Although the event catered specifically to psychology majors, the advice was valuable for students across disciplines. Topics ranged from crafting strong personal statements and resumes to managing recommendation letters and navigating application timelines.

One key takeaway was the importance of finding the right fit academically and emotionally.

For panelist Kailey Jean Karder, a Bradley graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in social work, relying on her intuition has been essential.

“Follow your gut,” Karder said. “Trust your instincts, learn how to talk to people and who to talk to and go out of your way to get answers.”

Gabriela Jarmul, a junior psychology major, was among the attendees who found the event transformative.

“I thought the panel was really helpful,” Jarmul said. “I learned a lot about grad school and what I want to do after this. It really changed my perspective on things.”

Whether students are certain about pursuing graduate school or still weighing their options, similar events offer invaluable resources to guide them through the process.

Every academic journey is unique, but with the right information and a little bit of self-trust, students are sure to find the path that is the best fit.

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