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Master’s Students at UNC Charlotte: Transitioning to Graduate Studies

Master’s Students at UNC Charlotte: Transitioning to Graduate Studies. Dr. Katherine Hall-Hertel Assistant Dean for Student Affairs The Graduate School. WELCOME from the Graduate School!. The life of a graduate student….

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Master’s Students at UNC Charlotte: Transitioning to Graduate Studies

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  1. Master’s Students at UNC Charlotte: Transitioning to Graduate Studies Dr. Katherine Hall-Hertel Assistant Dean for Student Affairs The Graduate School

  2. WELCOMEfrom the Graduate School!

  3. The life of agraduate student…

  4. Finding and keeping BALANCE is an important part of succeeding in graduate school. …or is it?

  5. The Purpose of a Graduate Education • Less than 10% of Americans hold a graduate degree* • In Graduate School knowledge becomes more specialized • Research or professional skills are developed • Builds intellectual base to support economic growth • Develops creative talent – entrepreneurs • Ensures highly skilled workforce • Preparation for doctoral studies *USA Today, 2008

  6. TheBenefits of a Graduate Education • Advanced degree holders earn an average of $10,000 more annually more than those with a bachelor’s degree* • More job security • Ability to retool skills • More opportunities to contribute to the local economy • *USA Today, 2008

  7. Faculty Expectations are Higher • Students must take responsibility for their own learning • Time management is essential • Learn the rules of your program and department

  8. Autonomous Learning for Grad Students • Relies on student • Demands curiosity and inquiry • Less structured • Evaluation may be based on fewer assignments • Less formal feedback

  9. Classroom Expectations • Participation • Quality of Analysis • Ability to Synthesize • Communication skills – written and oral

  10. Faculty Expectations of Social Ability • Learn to navigate the generational divide • Mature, focused “colleague” • Relationships may be less formal • Possess the ability to collaborate • Expect that you understand the implicit rules • Roles • Professionalism • American culture • And you need to learn the explicit rules too

  11. Advisor v. Mentor • An Advisor serves an administrative function Not all programs assign advisors – you need to ask • Mentors are not assigned but rather are chosen Provide honest feedback Contribute to a sense of belonging Provide you with a role model Direct you toward beneficial opportunities

  12. The typical timeline… • 2-3 years for most programs • Course work • Practicum or internship requirement • Capstone project or thesis • Consider topics for the thesis early • Consider the value of this topic if you intend to continue on for your doctoral degree • Work closely with your advisor and mentor • Possible Exam • Pay attention to deadlines – check the catalog

  13. First things first… Take time to learn about the resources on campus Safety and Security on campus includes: • Safe rides • Blue light phones • Escorts – X2200 or 911

  14. Resources for Graduate Students Skill Development: • Center for Graduate Life – Graduate School • Career Center • University Center for Academic Excellence • Graduate Life Fellows – peer mentors • Writing Resources Center • English Language Teaching Institute • Toastmaster’s Intl. – (Public Speaking)

  15. Center for Graduate Life • Professional development workshops • Writing Resource tutors for grad students • Teaching training for graduate students • Ombudsperson • Social and community events for grads Gradlife.uncc.edu

  16. Skill Building in Graduate School Find Opportunities • Leadership skills– student organizations, GPSG, university committees, Graduate Life Fellows • Professional skills-internships, practicum's, assistantships • Teaching skills– Graduate Teaching, Center for Teaching and Learning, assistantship opportunities • Communication skills– associations and conferences,Graduate Research Fair

  17. Seek Funding • Fewer opportunities for master’s students to be funded • Get resident status – NC Residency for tuition purposes • Seek external funds – grants and fellowships • Assistantships through the department • Work study positions • Loans – last option • Find useful links at http://graduateschool.uncc.edu/funding-resources

  18. Charlotte and Area Resources • Off-campus housing • Transportation • Student Insurance & Immunization • Child Care options

  19. Remember to Find Balance Find time for the things you love!

  20. Good Luck!Let us know how we can help on your road to success. Questions? Email gradlifecenter@uncc.edu

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