Contact Us
Edinburg: ESTAC 2.101
Email: careercenter@utrgv.edu
Phone: Brownsville (956) 882-5627
Phone: Edinburg (956) 665-2243
Professional and Graduate School Planning
Are you considering graduate school, law school, a health degree program, or post-graduate certification for your future career path? Exploring your options and interests and navigating the application process can be overwhelming and confusing. The good news is that there are numerous resources available across campus to help you make this decision.
Graduate School
The Career Education team at the Career Center offers graduate school planning to help as you consider your plans for graduate school, select programs, develop experience, navigate the application process, and prepare your application materials.
Grad School Requirements and Tips
Common Requirements
- Get yourself three strong recommendation letters. Faculty members from your university or professionals that work in your chosen field and have good reputations can write your letters.
- Write a personal statement. A personal statement is focused on what you would want to pursue in grad school and what your career goals are. The program will provide the length recommendation for this statement, which is usually between 2-3 pages.
- Focus on your test scores. Most programs ask for the GRE, unlike medical schools that ask for the MCAT.
- Have your resume and CVs done completely and professionally.
- If you have any research experience, make sure to highlight how they have impacted you.
- Recognize why you chose a specific program. You may need to answer this question in a grad interview or in your personal statements.
- Make sure your transcripts are taken care of. If you need to request your transcript, make sure to do it in time.
Application Tips
- Do not be afraid to call the program and ask many questions.
- Proofread your application before sending it.
- It looks good when you mention which faculty members you wish to work with.
- Be prepared for any interviews.
- Make sure to follow directions. For example, if they ask for a 3-page personal statement, do not go over the third-page mark.