Deciding On A School

If you are thinking about attending graduate school then you need to have a game plan.  The earlier the better.  While you are an undergraduate, you should begin to research your career options.  You may find that you would rather enter the work force first.  I decided to attend a university close to home while I attempt to attain a bachelors degree.  On the plus side, this decision allows me to be close to home and spend more time with my family.  The negative side, this decision requires that I spend an additional year in graduate school because my university does not offer a B.S. in Speech Pathology.  This works for my family and me though.  Decide what is most important to you.  Make a list of what your needs are.  Know what  you want to get out of your graduate school experience.  

During my junior year, I began to research the application process for my first choice and I found out what tests and forms I needed to complete.  I also took note of the deadline dates and in which semester the program requires new entrants to begin.  This particular school also offers an open house for perspective Speech Language Pathology graduate students.  I was able to attend this fall and it was a great opportunity.  I was able to speak with the faculty and learn more about the program and the facility.  If you have an opportunity like this then I would suggest that you go prepared.  This is a great time to ask questions.  Remember, that you want to make sure the school is a great fit for you as well.  I was truly impressed by the faculty and I left feeling as though I wanted to be a part of this organization.  I genuinely felt as though they desired to see us succeed.