Preparing for What's Next

Making the decision on whether to pursue graduate or professional education requires careful planning, exploration of possibilities, reflection, and intentionality. Asking questions is the best way to determine if graduate or professional education is part of your future. You'll find resources here designed to help you determine your path and answer some of those questions. We encourage you to connect with advisors and faculty mentors as well as Grand Valley alumni who have pursued advanced study in the fields to which you are drawn. You will find a lot of support for your journey here at Grand Valley!

Thinking about a Graduate Degree?

Thinking about a Gap Year?

Timeline for Preparing for Graduate Study

Get Involved

 As you begin to consider applying to graduate or professional school, keep in mind the many academic and non-academic experiences that will help prepare you for the rigors of graduate or professional school. Be intentional (and creative)! Immersing yourself deeply in a few leadership opportunities, or in a sustained volunteer experience that enables you to help make beneficial change over time, or in a series of interconnected study-abroad and language-learning experiences is better than a scattering of superficial activities and student org memberships. 

• Leadership Opportunities: The Office of Student Life offers a variety of leadership development exercises for GVSU students & student organizations.
• Internships: The GVSU Career Center is a great resource for internships and co-ops. See also the undergraduate opportunities through the fellowship website. 
• Volunteering: The Community Service Learning Center offers many community engagement opportunities that are a great way to get involved and give back to the community. 
• Research and Scholarship: Some graduate/professional programs require you to have research experience. Presenting and participating in research could also allow you to stand out from other graduate/professional school applicants. Begin by discussing your research interests with your faculty advisor or another professor who does research in your field. GVSU has programs that will allow you to become involved in the research community.
  • Summer Scholars - Allows you and a faculty member to devote 12 weeks on a research or creative project. A scholar must meet specific admission criteria to be accepted into this program. Scholars also receive a stipend, a form of monetary support, as compensation for their work. 
• Undergraduate Fellowship Opportunities: The Frederik Meijer Office of Fellowships is a great resource for fellowship opportunities to enhance your academic goals.