Graduate School Q and A

A: That's not really a question, but we'll let that slide for now. Not only do we get lots of questions about graduate school, many students tell us that they are “freaked out” by the whole process and topic. In fact, most students tell us they’re more “freaked out and worried about getting into graduate school than everyone else!” The truth is, applying to graduate school is difficult for everyone, and almost everyone gets somewhat freaked out about it. (Okay, maybe there are a couple of people out there who find it easy, but let’s be serious, it’s not an easy thing to go through.)

There is some good news though. First, if people are always freaked out about applying to graduate school, and they end up getting into graduate school, then why shouldn’t you? There are more and more people going into graduate psychology programs all the time. Are these people so different from you? Of course not. If they did, so will you. (riddle: if we get so many questions from students who are confused and nervous about getting into graduate school, can you be the only who’s confused and nervous about it?)

Second, applying to graduate school doesn’t have to be that bad...if you’re prepared. Knowing what the process is like, what schools are looking for, determining how many schools you need to apply to, what you’re actually getting yourself into, etc. As with most things, the more prepared and educated you are, the greater the likelihood you’ll succeed.