NDSU Graduate Student Information Fair

Graduate Fair Information Booth

NDSU students were able to explore the option of graduate school on Thursday Oct. 28.  They could ask questions and learn more about applying to graduate school, how to finance school and successfully starting a career after graduation. 

The event, which was open to all NDSU students, held informational sessions in the Memorial Union Prairie Room and had booths featuring all the available graduate programs in Great Plains Ballroom.

The informational sessions had an average attendance of 35 prospective students.  Betsy Birmingham, associate professor in the Department of English, started things off with tips for writing a purpose statement and advice for applications.  She emphasized finding something that will set you apart. “Be yourself, not the ideal applicant,” she said.

Ann Kumm of the Career Center

Ann Kumm, Associate Director of the NDSU Career Center, presented information on finding a job after graduate school. Through resources on their website and meeting with staff in the career center, students can receive help in finding and applying for jobs.  They help you with everything from job searching to helping you decide what to wear to an interview.  Learn more at www.ndsu.edu/career/

Attending the Benefits of Grad School session helped answer students’ questions about going to graduate school.  According to Charlene Wolf-Hall’s presentation, a few of the main reasons students choose to attend grad school are:

·         Advancement in your career

·         Earn a higher salary

·         Career of interest may require it

·         Obtain professional skills that will help you think independently and learn actively.

Financing is another important thing to think about when considering grad school.  Tara Thoreson Financial Aid Administrator of Student Financial Services gave students advice on where to find scholarships and the perks of deferring loans while in grad school.

Graduate Students answer questions

Janis Bork explained a few different ways to finance your graduate education. There are three kinds of assistantships available at NDSU; research, teaching and support. Research assistant ships are mainly for science, math, and agriculture programs which are funded through grant money specifically for grad students.  Teaching assistants are available as well with requirements of a nine month position in exchange for a waiver. You must teach an undergrad class or become a grader, putting in a minimum of ten hours per week. Support assistantships are programs where you work in the office and provide office support and help with dissertations and research.  The amount of assistantships depends on your department and most are awarded at the same time you are accepted into the program. It is suggested that students contact their department of interest in order to find out what their options are for financing.

When it comes to scholarships and fellowship programs the more you put into research the more you will be able to apply for.

Perspective graduate students were also able to gain more insight by visiting with someone in their department.   Or you could learn more about earning a Master’s degree online. NDSU offers 20 graduate programs online, a number that is growing every year. www.ndsu.edu/gradschool/  

View videos from the graduate fair: 

• Graduate Student Fair Interview - Amy
•  Graduate Student Fair Interview - Elle
• Graduate Student Association Member - Kimmie
• Information Booth View

Missed the Graduate School Information Fair?