Whether you’ve taken some time off or you’re jumping straight in, the transition into a graduate program can leave you with a mix of emotions. If this was an easy adjustment for you, I envy you! If you’re struggling with this process, you’re not alone.

Graduating from SAU

Hello, my name is Allysia Hunter. In 2019, I graduated with my B.S. in Marine Biology from SAU and quickly realized how competitive this field really was. I originally thought I would graduate and land my “dream job”. Boy was I in for a strong wake-up call! I quickly realized that I lacked experience and education to land the jobs I wanted. Unfortunately, I had no backup plan so I did what most others in my predicament do and took a gap year. This was not one of those “pack your hiking backpack and travel across Europe” gap-year, but a “What am I doing with my life?” gap year.

During this time, I had the opportunity to focus on my career aspirations. I looked for “dream jobs” and began making a list of what I would need to land one of them. Most of the jobs I found required a master’s degree. At the time, I had no idea what graduate school was, much less how to find a program or how to apply. I was a first-generation college student so to say my experience was low, would be an understatement. However, I decided to not let that hold me back. To help guide me, I found a few mentors I trusted that had gone through this process before. 

From the jobs I found, I identified the degrees I would need and started my search for schools. Some schools were “dream schools” while others were a bit more practical for me and my lifestyle. I narrowed down my search from there and began the application process.

Applying to Programs

The programs I was interested in required a GRE test score on top of my bachelor’s degree. My score not only determined if I got into a program but also my eligibility for scholarships. Once I got my GRE test taken and received my scores back, I reached out to past professors and mentors and asked for letters of recommendation. After this, I requested undergraduate transcripts and submitted my applications to three programs.

Soon after submitting my applications, I had to schedule interviews. For the programs I applied to, I was aiming to conduct research to write a thesis on. I was required to identify and contact a professor to determine if they were willing to be my advisor to help lead me through a research project. If you are in this position, most likely no one will reach out to you to conduct research or join their team, this step in the application process is entirely up to you. I encourage you to find professors that have experience in the subjects you’re interested in. 

The following months were a waiting game. It usually takes a while for graduate admission committees to review submitted applications, conduct interviews (if needed), and select qualified applicants. However, knowing this did not make this period of waiting any easier. I used this time to reach out to graduate students currently in the programs I applied to in hopes to gain a better perspective of the program, the courses, and the professors.

Overcoming Adversity

Just as the waiting period was wrapping up, the COVID-19 pandemic began. The pandemic did and still is impacting several aspects of our lives. For me, this meant that graduate schools were holding off on accepting a new cohort of students. In turn, this meant I was once again facing a time of uncertainty in my life. 

While the pandemic was a very difficult time for many, I was able to use my period of quarantine with family and continue working from home. One positive thing I took away from the pandemic was the time I had to think about my future. The “break” I had from my seemingly busy personal and work-life brought a newfound clarity that I didn’t realize I needed. I discovered that I no longer wanted to conduct research but instead informally teach science. This, in turn, led me to begin a new program search that aligned with my new career goals. Shortly after, I found programs that fit me and my goals, submitted my applications and began the once again, long waiting game.

Eventually, I found myself on the right track and am only a few months away from graduating with my M.S. in Conservation Biology from the University of West Alabama. Although I’m almost finished with this degree, the transition from my undergraduate experience to my graduate one was anything but easy. To me, the classes are faster, the exams are harder, and the peers are more competitive. I’ve had to reevaluate my priorities, practice better time management skills, and study more than I ever have to succeed in this program but it has proven to be so worth it. 

Advice from Me to You

To the soon-to-be or recent college graduate, I offer you a few words of advice on the transition from an undergraduate program to a graduate program.

1. Identify what you want. You are the only person that knows what you want to do with your life. Find your passions and what drives you and strive towards that.

2. Search for programs. If your “dream job” requires a graduate degree, find the schools and programs that best align with your personal goals, career goals, and lifestyle.

3. Use your resources. I encourage you to find a mentor to help guide you, reach out to peers, and utilize other services to assist. The SAU Career Services office is a great place to start and was a lifesaver for me.

4. Do your research. If the programs you are interested in require additional tests, courses, or certificates before applying, make sure to complete those. Some tests may need months for preparation – try your best to plan ahead.

5. Apply as early as you can. Most programs have deadlines that are months or even a year before classes begin. Make sure you’re keeping a close look at all the deadlines so you don’t miss any.

6. Follow up. If it’s been weeks or months since you’ve applied, it is never a bad idea to follow up with the graduate admission committee or a coordinator. Keeping track of your application will help ease your mind during the long waiting period after applying.

7. Prepare. Graduate school can be a difficult time for many. It takes a lot of hard work and determination to succeed. If you get in, give it your all.

8. Remind yourself. At times, you may have to remind yourself of why you chose this program or why this degree is worth it to you. On top of the challenging course load, graduate school can be intimidating. Remember that the admission committee saw something excellent in you and you’re meant to be there like everyone else. 

If you’ve found yourself in a period of life where you’re not sure what your next steps are after graduation or you’re not sure how to find or apply to a graduate program, find peace in knowing you’re not alone. I’ve been where you are. Don’t let this season of life overwhelm you. Instead, embrace it and use it to motivate you. You are capable of amazing things!

From a fellow “I’m not sure what I’m doing with my life,” you’ve got this!