Prepare for Graduate School
Considering or Planning for Graduate School
Graduate school can open doors, but only if it aligns with where you’re trying to go. This page is designed to help you make informed, strategic decisions about your next step, whether you’re exploring the idea or actively preparing to apply. From clarifying your goals and researching programs to building relevant experience and crafting strong applications, you’ll find resources and guidance to move forward with confidence and purpose.
Understand if graduate school aligns with your career path and long-term goals.
- What Is Graduate School and Should You Apply? (Article)
- Should You go to Graduate School? (YouTube Video)
- Should You Go to Grad School Right After Undergrad? (Article)
- Meet with a UIC career advisor/coach to discuss career goals and graduate school options (Handshake)
- Meet with your UIC Academic Advisor to discuss your graduate school plans (iAdvise)
- Conduct informational interviews with a professor, current graduate student, and/or alum
- Council of Graduate Schools – Resources Section
Research programs, admissions expectations, and degree outcomes.
Strengthen your profile through research, internships, and academic engagement.
- UIC Undergraduate Research Experience
- Handshake – Search for Part-time and Internship Positions
- Pathways to Science – Research and fellowship opportunities (especially for underrepresented students)
- NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates
- Social Science Research Council
- USAJOBS – Federal Internships
- Idealist – Volunteering, Non-Profit, and Community Opportunities
- InternJobs
Develop strong application materials and request recommendations early.
- Build or Update Your Resume
- Writing Personal Statements (YouTube Video)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Get Help with Your Personal Statement
