Get involved!
If you’re considering graduate school, building experience beyond the classroom is one of the best ways to prepare. Graduate programs are looking for students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate commitment, curiosity, and initiative in their chosen fields.
Here’s why seeking out activities related to your anticipated field matters:
-
Explore Your Interests – Hands-on experiences help you confirm whether a field truly excites you before committing to years of advanced study.
-
Strengthen Your Application – Admissions committees value students who go beyond coursework and show real engagement with their discipline.
-
Develop Key Skills – Research, internships, volunteer work, and leadership roles help you build transferable skills that graduate programs (and future employers) look for.
-
Expand Your Network – Connecting with professionals, faculty, and peers in your area of interest opens doors to mentorship, recommendations, and opportunities.
-
Tell a Stronger Story – Experiences give you concrete examples to highlight in your statement of purpose, interviews, and essays.
Whether it’s joining a research project, volunteering with a relevant organization, interning in your field, or attending professional events, these activities will make you a stronger applicant—and help you feel confident in your next step.