>> Applying to grad school can be a daunting task, but if you drag your feet,
you may find yourself left out in the cold, no matter how qualified you are.
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The first thing you want to do is determine why you're going back to school.
What are your professional goals and how are you going to reach them?
Now comes the research.
Request published materials from the schools you are interested in,
and visit those schools, if possible.
Research the professors at the various schools.
Are there any that you'd be thrilled to learn from?
During your research phase, you should try to speak with: professionals in your field
of interest, undergraduate professors that you trust and respect,
and grad students currently studying at the schools you're interested in.
When researching schools, one last thing to look
into would be any scholarship opportunities or loan programs offered.
After all, you will have to pay for grad school, and it's not cheap.
Continue to explore your options and take the necessary steps for funding this experience.
Next, you want to become familiar with the application requirements and deadlines.
For instance, the GRE is a test that's accepted by thousands of schools, but in some cases,
it may be waived based on undergraduate performance,
so be sure to check with each school.
Now's the time to register for testing and arrange
for any prep courses that might improve your score.
Get all the extra help that you need, and when the time comes, ace your exam.
During this time, you should also begin to: formulate your personal statement and/or essay,
request official transcripts from your undergraduate institution,
contact potential recommenders, and complete all application forms.
A little note about the letters of recommendation: when formally requesting them,
make sure you explain your interests and future plans, as well as why you've come to them.
You also want to provide them with any guidelines or instructions that they're going
to need to complete your recommendation, and finally,
ask for that recommendation back two weeks prior to the submission deadline.
Now we have come to the submission.
Put all documents together, application forms, transcripts, essays that you have completed
and have proofread, test scores, and recommendations.
Submit two weeks in advance of deadline and call to confirm that the school received
and has all the documents that they need.
Now, wait for the news.
If multiple acceptances come in, weigh the pros and cons of each school.
Consider things such as school ranking, cost, professors, and location.
Then, make your decision.
And finally, make sure you thank your recommenders and everyone else that assisted
in your application process with a personal note.
Good luck, and enjoy school...again!
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