Questions by Jillian McKernan-Walley ’93, P’21, Director, Center for Career Excellence & Sarah Coburn, Senior Associate Director, Center for Career Excellence

Q: Graduate/Professional School Search: What should students consider during the search process and before applying? How do you know if graduate school is for you/that you are ready for graduate school?

A: I always tell students if it is possible and makes sense to them to take a year or two off before applying to graduate school, no matter what higher degree they are seeking. Graduate schools want to see some experience and relevance to the program. You will also recognize you are able to better engage in the material, projects and thesis if you’ve already had some time in your field. I took two years before applying to graduate school and I worked as a fellow on Capitol Hill in DC for a Caucus then worked in Vermont in residential direct service with at-risk and homeless youth, two worlds apart but both helped me realize what I wanted out of graduate school.

Q. The Internship Search: How should students approach their spring or summer internship search? What should students be looking for in an internship opportunity?

A. Internships can be incredible learning experiences but are often unpaid and require a lot of time, thereby only allowing a certain demographic often white, able bodied, straight, cisgender, male with a higher socio-economic status. Try finding an internship that values all bodies and people, any job can have a social justice lens if you look for it. Look for Internships with a stipend or flexible hours to be able to have a part time job or time to do a hobby. Subsequently this will also tell you about how the
organization values their employees. Take advantage of alumni, they often know of internship opportunities or can create them if you are struggling to find something in your field or where you are living. Most importantly find a mentor, it doesn’t have to be your supervisor though it may be. Find
someone to bounce ideas and questions off of and to grab coffee or a phone call with who knows the organization. It will make you feel more connected and part of the team.