Dos and Don'ts of Getting Your Masters!

 So You're Getting Your Masters!

Do's and Don'ts for 

an Amazing Graduate School Experience 

Pursuing a master's degree is a significant commitment that requires discipline, strategy, and balance. Here are some dos and don’ts to help you succeed:

✅ DOs:

1. Set Clear Goals – Define why you're pursuing a master's degree and how it aligns with your career or personal aspirations.  This should include jobs down the line and the steps to achieve them.
2. Manage Your Time Wisely – Balance coursework, research, and personal life effectively. Use planners, calendars, or productivity apps.
3. Engage with Professors & Peers – Build relationships with faculty and classmates; networking is crucial for academic and career growth.  The friendships you build with those around you will continue to guide you into the future. 
   
4. Stay Organized – Keep track of assignments, deadlines.  Much of your work will be self guided or include open ended assignments.  Plan ahead.
5. Develop Strong Research & Writing Skills – A master's degree often requires thesis writing and research-heavy coursework.  Most university libraries will have books about writing a thesis or project management.  Many blogs and resources can also be found online.
6. Take Advantage of Resources – Use university libraries, academic journals, career counseling, and study groups.
7. Seek Funding Opportunities – Look for scholarships, assistantships, or grants to ease financial stress.
8. Maintain Work-Life Balance – Prioritize mental and physical well-being; burnout is real.  This can be as simple as dating, finding a romantic partner, or making time to exercise or partake in hobbies.  Even reading as a hobby can be a healthy way to ease stress.
9. Be Open to Learning Beyond Your Field – Interdisciplinary knowledge can enhance your expertise.  Read widely outside of your chosen subject.  Read within fields that converge with your own.  Anything relevant can help you in writing your thesis.
10. Plan for Post-Graduation – Whether it’s job hunting, a Ph.D., or entrepreneurship, have a roadmap for your next steps.  Start researching early and reaching out in informational interviews.  Have a plan for what jobs you will be pursuing and what steps you will take to get them.

❌ DON’Ts:

1. Procrastinate – Falling behind can make it hard to catch up, especially with research-heavy coursework.
2. Ignore Your Mental Health – Don’t push yourself to exhaustion; take breaks and seek support if needed.  Do not abuse substances, like alcohol.  Such behavior will only make it more difficult to maintain your mental health.
3. Be Afraid to Ask for Help – Whether it’s professors, advisors, or classmates, don’t struggle in silence.
4. Underestimate the Workload – A master's program is often more intense than undergrad; be prepared for the challenge.
5. Overcommit to Too Many Activities – Saying yes to everything can spread you too thin. Prioritize wisely.
6. Neglect Networking – Your professional connections during your master’s can help with future job opportunities.
7. Skip Conferences & Workshops – Presenting research and attending events can open doors for collaboration and career growth.
8. Ignore Feedback – Constructive criticism from professors and peers will make your work stronger.
9. Assume a Master’s Guarantees a Job – A degree helps, but networking, internships, and skill-building are just as important.
10. Lose Sight of Your Passion – Don't get caught up in just "checking boxes" for graduation—stay motivated by what excites you in your field.

Congratulations, and have an awesome day!