The Sage

The Sage

College Growth Mindset:

Prepare for grad school
Intellectual | Focused | Self-disciplined | Persistent

As a Sage, you can answer “What do you want to do when you grow up?” with ease. You have a vision for the future and know where you want to go in life. You care about maintaining good grades and staying involved in organizations that match your goals. You’re likely thinking about how you will get to graduate school after you earn your college degree.

Most likely to

Be Academic Decathlon Team MVP.

Strengths

Critical Thinker. Academic Achiever. Detail-oriented. Analytical. Curious.

Support Opportunities

Visit the Financial Aid Office and apply for scholarships throughout your college experience. You can continue to find funds well after senior year.

Sit in the front row of class and make yourself known. Networking with faculty members will get you strong letters of recommendation.

Ask your professors about research and writing opportunities. You can build a strong resume for grad school as early as your first year.

Join clubs and organizations that connect to your academic goals.

  10% of students are Sages  

Top Priorities for Choosing a College

  • Look for colleges with programs that will help you get your advanced degree early and with guaranteed admission to their masters, law, or medical programs. These are often called 4+1, 3+3, or BS/MD programs.
  • Consider colleges with strong connections to graduate schools that give you opportunities for research and scholarships.
  • Make sure the college offers majors that match your career or graduate school goals.
  • Think about the kind of environment you would like to live in. Do you prefer a busy urban campus or a more small-town feel? Do you want to be close to home, or are you cool with traveling farther away?
  • Get a feel for campus life and see if it matches your values and interests. Check out colleges with a diverse student body and a welcoming campus culture that values diversity and inclusion.
  • Think about the cost. Review your financial aid package and create a plan for paying for college.
  • Research what career services each college offers. Look at graduation rates, job placement opportunities, and what companies hired graduates.

Want more tips for choosing a college that’s perfect for you? Check out Crushing College Choices: Tips for Picking Your Perfect Match.

Questions You Should Ask on Your College Tour

  • How does this school help students prepare for graduate school, like research opportunities or mentorship programs?
  • What’s the success rate of alumni who go on to attend graduate school?
  • Are there any graduate-level courses or programs I can take as an undergraduate student to prepare me for graduate school?
  • What kinds of research opportunities are available for graduate students? Can I get involved in research as an undergraduate?
  • Can you tell me about the alumni network and how it can help me with my graduate school applications and future career goals?
  • What are the faculty currently researching in my area of interest?

For more campus visit tips, check out our Top 10 Tips for an Epic College Campus Visit: Plus 8 Questions to Ask During Your Tour

Tips for the Best College Experience

  • Choose programs that give you a solid academic foundation and opportunities to research and get involved in scholarly activities.
  • Look for solid graduate programs and teachers who are experts in their fields.
  • Pursue internships and research assistantships in your chosen field.
  • Get help with your grad school applications, especially writing essays and finding programs that fit your goals.

Questions to Ask Your School Counselor

  • Do you have examples of colleges with research opportunities? How can I get involved? How will they help me prepare for graduate school?
  • What kind of graduate-level courses or programs can I expect to find at different colleges?
  • Are there colleges with a strong track record of preparing students for graduate studies?
  • What courses do I need to take to be ready for college?
  • What scholarships should I apply for?
  • When do I need to fill out my FAFSA?
  • Do you have any college planning sessions scheduled?

Remember, your high school counselor can help you navigate the college search process and guide you to a college that's perfect for you! Don't be afraid to ask questions and explore your interests! Need more ideas? Check out 5 Questions to Ask Your Counselor about College.

Curious about the other College Growth Mindsets?

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