How to prepare for the event
The Expo is a great opportunity to meet with admissions representatives from programs that you are interested in applying to or are at least curious about attending. Maybe you just need to learn about the application process and pick up an application form. Whatever your motivation for attending The Expo, it is a good idea to be prepared.
1. Know whom you want to meet.
2. Rather than walking around, unsure of which schools are participating in The Expo, pick up the list of participating institutions that includes a map of where they are located in the ballroom.
3. Be ready to ask questions that are important to you. These questions will probably come from the reading you have done on applying to graduate school or about a particular program. Write these questions down and take them with you to The Expo.
Program Curriculum
- Can you give me an example of the courses that this program offers?
- What specializations are available?
- Does the program focus on theory and research, or does it emphasize application of knowledge and skills?
- If practicum is required, is there a good variety of practicum sites?
Faculty
- What is the faculty to student ratio? Do they hold degrees from leading institutions?
- What type of special recognition have they earned (e.g., awards, grants, etc.)?
- What have they published? Do the top scholars teach, or are they primarily involved in research?
- Is there diversity in both cultural backgrounds and research interests?
Program Reputation
- Is the program accredited?
- Is the program well-established or relatively new?
- Is the program nationally ranked in terms of excellence?
Cost
- What are the tuition and fees? What types of financial aid are available?
- What are the state requirements for becoming a resident (i.e. how soon can you become a resident to reduce your tuition)?
Campus Facilities
- What is the quality of the library, recreation center, and other areas designed for studying or student interaction?
- Are there an adequate number of computer labs?
Career Services
- What type of employment assistance is provided by the program or the university as a whole?
- Are these services only available to current students or are alumni eligible as well?
- With which companies or organizations do graduates tend to find employment?
Geographic Location
- What are employment opportunities in the area?
4. Know where you are personally in the decision process of applying to graduate or professional school.
5. Are you exploring the idea of graduate school or are you exploring programs in a specific area of study?
6. Make a positive first impression.
Look professional, be friendly and most importantly be yourself.
7. Have a method for keeping in touch.
Ask for the representative's business card along with a brochure and application.
8. Consider attending the workshops.
These workshops are a great way to learn the secrets to application process and learn more about the GRE, MCAT, GMAT, and LSAT.