LIM College

The LIM College Blog

GRADUATE STUDENTS

Tips for Grad Students

posted by LIM College

Daria_Fashion1. Time Management

Between classes, exams, papers and presentations, as a grad student time management will be one of your biggest challenges, especially if you’re working full-time. However, that’s okay, as you are the master of your own schedule.

Keep a to-do list and keep it prioritized. Schedule time to spend on classwork each day. Even if you only have 20 minute blocks. Seriously, you can cover a lot of good stuff in those mere minutes! Just as important, the material will stay fresh in your mind.

  

2. Prioritization

The second you start grad school you will be off and running. Make sure you accomplish what you need to sooner rather than later. Do not procrastinate. For example, if you have a huge project you probably need to tackle it piece by piece. Get started and… GO!


3. Go with the flow

There will always be interruptions and distractions. Get that into your head now so you don’t freak out when a family member or friend interrupts you. (I thought YOU took out the garbage!) 

When you are interrupted by others or there are urgent tasks you need to do, ask yourself: "What is the most important thing I can do right now? What is the most urgent?" Use your answer to plan your time and get back on track.

If you start feeling anxious about a task or something you need to remember, be chill! Write down what you need to do, take a few deep breaths, and get back to work. 


4. Take advantage of professors and professional contacts

Your professors have years of experience in the field, as well as amazing contacts. Utilize them! Ask their opinions. They want to help you!

Also, any other contacts you make outside of school or during your internship are also worthwhile. Work on cultivating relationships early on, and not just when you need a recommendation or are looking for a job.


5. Take the initiative

No one in grad school is going to hold your hand and show you what you need to do. It’s all up to you, baby! You are expected to be independent whether you have questions about a big assignment, financial aid, finding an internship or anything else. Take the initiative and get your questions answered. Your professors will also appreciate you coming to them sooner rather than later.


6. Be social

Take advantage of what LIM has to offer, whether it’s the CEO Speaker Series, a lecture, a student group that supports your interests or free pizza in the student lounge. You are allowed to take breaks!

We hope you find these tips useful! 

Mary Beth Maslowski

Topics: LIM Graduate Studies, Student Advice

1 Comment