Why Young Alumni Chose to Attend Graduate or Professional School
“I didn’t want to further pursue what I did during my undergraduate years (I got a bachelor’s degree in geological sciences) because of the stress I endured to complete the major in two years, so I decided to change directions by getting in geospatial information sciences at UT Dallas.” –Rory-Stefan A. ’15, Master of Science, University of Texas at Dallas
“I chose to attend graduate school because I still have a strong desire to spend my time learning and I wanted to strengthen both my career and educational background.” –Michaela K. ’15, Master of Science, Johns Hopkins University
“I wanted to become certified to teach in New York, as well as perfect my craft.” –Monique J. ’15, Master of Science, University of Rochester
“I want to be able to be as knowledgeable as possible in the industry I enter. I want to represent myself in the best way I know how.” –Morgan P. ’15, Master of Business Administration, University of Massachusetts Amherst
“I needed an advanced degree to do the kinds of jobs I’m interested in.” –Nahoma P. ’15, Master of Science, University of Rochester
“I always enjoyed doing research and advancing knowledge, so I decided to pursue a research-focused degree before I go out in the industry. I also believe that the skills you acquire by continuing your education will give you higher earnings, higher ceiling, and more opportunities in your career.” –Ioannis Z. ’14, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Bristol
“I will be certified to teach Middle School Math in June of 2017. However, I plan to become an elementary school teacher and intend to do so by pursuing an MAT while continuing to teach.” –Alesa Y. ’15, Master of Arts, Undecided
“I sought a community-based medical school that had a warm student body and administration. I found all this and much more at WSU BSOM.” –Ben W. ’15, Doctor of Medicine, Wright State University
“To remain competitive in the job market, network, and to apply skills from the classroom and industry to one another.” –Lauren K. ’15, Master of Business Administration
“Given the state of the job market, I decided that attending a prestigious graduate program was a better investment for my future career than working a low-paying entry level job for a few years.” –Brianna I. ’15, Master of Public Health, Columbia University
“To further my career in research using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study children with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Very few researchers in cognitive science are currently using fMRI to study ASDs, and it is a gap in the field that I would like to help fill.” –Mary Abbe R. ’13, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Texas at Austin
“While at UR I developed a (surprisingly) strong interest in research, which I committed myself to exploring further in graduate training. Doing so reinforced my interest in a research career and gave me the skills for it.” –Casey L. ’09, Doctor of Philosophy, Drexel University
“To bolster my academic credentials for medical school, ensure I would be living near my (now) wife, and figure out to what degree I want to do basic science or clinical research in my future career in medicine.” –Joshua M. ’17, Science/Research
“There are always endless opportunities to advance in your career if you treat it as a hobby. Graduate school certainly helps with this.” –Allan H. ’18, Healthcare Non-Medical
“The program I chose was taught by professors who had been in my profession (government) for years. To me, this institutional knowledge was a critical component to choosing to attend graduate school. The classroom experience and theoretical knowledge was great, but I knew that a master’s program would provide me the on-the-ground, real life knowledge necessary to excel in my career.” –Jonathan A. ’09, Master of Professional Studies in Legislative Affairs, George Washington University
“I realized that I had a passion for history and I wanted to share that passion with others. I don’t think you can go into grad school, especially for humanities, with the expectation that you will end up with a job. It is a time to devote yourself completely to one very specific topic. There are not a lot of people who are in a circumstance where that level of study is possible, and for me it has been an amazing opportunity.” –Douglas B. ’10, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Missouri, Columbia
“I felt that it was necessary in order to give me a competitive advantage in the workforce.” –Anonymous, Master of Business Administration, Simon School of Business
“I found a program in live entertainment management which is exactly what I wanted to pursue. It was a great opportunity to gain exposure to the industry while attaining an advanced degree at the same time.” –David L. ’09, Master of Arts, University of Miami
“Nursing is an amazing field! I knew that I wanted to be a Family Nurse Practitioner prior to earning my Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) in UR’s School of Nursing accelerated BSN program.” –Elizabeth S. ’11, Masters in Nursing, Columbia University School of Nursing
“I started taking public health courses partially because my company had a tuition reimbursement program. I ended up enjoying the classes and enrolled in the part-time program while still working full-time.” –Anonymous, Master of Public Health, Boston University
“I enjoy learning. Plus, the fields I want to work in require graduate degrees and advanced licenses.” –Elizabeth C. ’08, Masters in Nursing, University of Rochester, and Masters in Mental Health Counseling, St. John Fisher College
“I want to be the first person in my family to get a doctorate; my M.A. program is the first step toward that goal.” –Dan G. ’14, Master of Arts, Villanova University
“I love research and I finally found a field that was able to combine my loves for psychology and neuroscience (behavioral neuroscience). I love working on my own projects, answering my own research questions, mentoring undergraduate research assistants, and working towards becoming a PI and professor.”–Ashley B. ’17, Science/Research
“I’m getting an MBA pretty soon. I basically needed it after 6 years in the workforce. Don’t treat grad school as a foregone conclusion, but if you feel you need grad school, don’t wait too long to go.”–Michael D. ’13, Finance
“I chose to go to law school because I wanted to continue learning! I wanted to learn to work in a dynamic field where I could stay interested throughout my career while also having the power and education to make a difference. Learning to properly advocate for a cause, a person, or an organization is something of great value to me.” –Eileen R. ’18, Juris Doctor, Boston College Law School
“Within the sciences and engineering, developing completely new approaches to solving a variety of problems, in fields such as efficient lighting, polymeric design and synthesis, and surfactants, requires a depth and breadth of study you can only obtain at the MS and PhD levels. So, in order to become an independent researcher who may influence the direction of your field, you often need the PhD degree.” –Guy M. ’10, Doctor of Philosophy, Case Western Reserve University
“I chose to attend graduate school because I wanted to gain additional research experience and learn even more about my field of study. Undergraduate coursework and research helped me build a broad background in biomedical engineering, while graduate school has given me the opportunity to study bone bioengineering specifically through research projects.” –Andrea M. ’12, Doctor of Philosophy, Columbia University
“For two reasons: First, because I wanted a job in academia and a PhD would bring me closer to that career goal. Second, because I love learning.” –Caitlin C. ’11, Doctor of Philosophy, UC Irvine
“Important to know, but I knew this at the time: cost of graduate school! At the end of the day, you end up with whatever degree you’re trying to get. Factor in tuition, in state vs. out of state. The difference will be tens of thousands of dollars and years of paying off more student loans or not.” –Lindsay W. ’10, Master of Science, Towson University
“When applying to PhD programs, your advisor is more important than the institution. A bad advisor at your dream school will make the next 4+ years much harder.”
–David A. ’10, Doctor of Philosophy, Purdue University
“I wish I had known how vital it is to contact prospective Principal Investigators at the institutions you’re applying to. That can make or break an application.”
–Alberto S. ’14, Doctor of Philosophy, Georgetown University
“Getting master’s degree allowed me to get a jump start in position and salary when entering industry.”
–Melissa B. ’17, Engineering
“I chose to attend graduate school to better understand the field of optics. I just felt like there was much more that I wanted to see, and I’m hoping I have the chance to further that through research.”–Nicholas K. ’17, Science/Research
“I attended graduate school after I realized that I wanted to enter the medical device industry. As much as I loved mechanical engineering, the opportunities that were presented to me did not fully interest me.”–Ariana C. ’18, Engineering
“I have always planned to study a field that is related in medicine. During my undergrad years, I explored options in both research and medicine, and I chose to stick to medicine.”–Jiayu T. ’18, Medicine
“More opportunities for personal/career growth as well as more opportunities to impact the world.” –Joshua K. ’18, Medicine
“How much work it requires.” –Rafael B. ’14, Master of Science in Accounting, Simon Business School
“Find out as much as you can about the actual career opportunities available with a degree. The legal field is not exactly what anyone thought it was going to be when they went into it, including myself and my father who attended Pitt Law.” –Lauren R. ’10, Doctor of Law, University of Pittsburgh
“It’s important to be realistic about what a graduate degree will do for you. Graduate school is difficult and time-consuming; if you are just applying to forestall the ‘real world,’ you will be miserable. A graduate degree should be a stepping stone to a career you could not otherwise attain, not just a back-up option if jobs fall through.” –Caitlin C. ’11, Doctor of Philosophy, UC Irvine
“Plan as far ahead as you can as soon as you can – it’s easier to adapt an existing plan as your interests and circumstances change than it is to create a plan when you really need one.” –Matt A. ’16, Engineering
“I believe to progress in the business world and reach the point of leading an organization, the easiest way to move up is by getting a higher degree.” –Elias D. ’16, Information Technology
“I wanted to advance my understanding of the biology of aging beyond my undergraduate career through research. I figured, “Why go to medical school and save thousands of lives,” when a big breakthrough in medical research can save more.” –Amy E. ’16, Science/Research
“I initially began a program for a doctorate degree. After one semester, I learned that the program wasn’t going to help me toward my career goals, so I decided not to continue school and began looking for a job. I felt like a failure and like I was letting everyone down, but this was the right decision for me. Now I am hoping to gain more experience in my field and reapply in a few years, so I can be more competitive and get accepted to some of the schools I previously didn’t get into.” –Morgan K. ’16, Science/Research
“I wanted the luxury of making playwriting my primary focus. I saw a funded graduate program as a way to have both time and structure to improve my writing. I’m also interested in teaching creative writing, which I can do with an MFA.” –Katherine V. ’15, Master of Fine Arts, Ohio University
“My goal is to attend medical school, but I’m currently getting more experience in the research side first.” –Teresa R. ’16, Medicine
“My passion for nursing lead me to pursue an accelerated second-degree program after graduating from Rochester. I was able to complete my prerequisite coursework at Rochester and successfully transition to nursing school.” –Jessica R. ’16, Nursing
“I knew I was never going to find a job that would satisfy me with only a bachelor’s degree, so I went on to get a master’s degree. It was a calculated, professional decision and I’m really glad I did it because it paid off for me in many ways. I’m still taking extra classes and hope to go back to school again in the future.” –Jaclyn S. ’11, Non-Profit
“It was almost free because I received tuition benefits, and I wanted to get a master’s degree while I was still young and had free time.” –Emily H. ’12, Non-Profit
What Young Alumni Wish They Had Known Before Applying
“Don’t be fooled by fancy or big name schools. Shop around and explore what state schools have to offer. If you’re specializing in a field that has state-specific licenses, consider what areas of the country you are likely to be in after you graduate.” –Megan H. ’09, Masters of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis
“I wish I had surveyed more schools.” –Michaela K. ’15, Master of Science, Johns Hopkins University
“You learn a lot more in the job, and you will face the same administrative frustrations as an undergraduate.” –Isabella T.V. ’14, Master of Business Administration, University of Rochester
“I wish that I had spaced out my program of study so that I could enjoy the learning instead of cramming.” –Monique J. ’15, Master of Science, University of Rochester
“Don’t rush into grad school if you’re not sure you’re ready.” –Nahoma P. ’15, Master of Science, University of Rochester
“Graduate school is so very different than undergrad in so many ways that you do not expect.” –Ioannis Z. ’14, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Bristol
“The application process is the same as undergrad. It feels a lot scarier, but really it’s the same, just different requirements. You got into undergrad; you can get into graduate school, too.” –Patricia C. ’15, Master of Arts, Gallaudet University
“Everyone here has killer test scores and impressive resumes, so don’t think that yours will guarantee your merit aid. You’re looking at a lot of unsubsidized loans, so make sure it’s an investment that will pay off.” –Brianna I. ’15, Master of Public Health, Columbia University
“If you want to go to law school, be sure you want to go to law school. It can be a miserable place, even if you want to be there. If you need time to decide, take that time. A lot of people take time off after college.” –Jason S. ’10, Juris Doctorate, New York University School of Law
“It is always said that applying to graduate school is competitive, and I wish I had known what ‘competitive’ actually meant. Having been on both sides of the graduate school application process, I have been surprised at how the final decisions are made. My advice is this: grades matter, scores matter, and research experience matters, but equally (if not more) important is your passion for the topic, your commitment, and your ability to articulate both!” –Casey L. ’09, Doctor of Philosophy, Drexel University
“Apply to graduate assistantships and research assistantships. There are so many opportunities that will pay for you to go to grad school; take advantage of them! I am currently a graduate assistant and get free tuition. This makes all the difference.”
–Lindsay W. ’10, Master of Science, Towson University
“Work experience in nursing is invaluable prior to graduate school, although not required. I recommend at least completing your new employee orientation program prior to going back to school. Unlike my colleagues who have not worked as a nurse, I have practical experiences that allow me to critically think about material presented in class. Similarly, I have a greater understanding of how to problem-solve financial and psychosocial barriers to patient care.” –Elizabeth S. ’11, Masters in Nursing, Columbia University School of Nursing
“Don’t ignore how expensive the application process will be. There are a lot of unforeseen costs like mailing supplemental applications, recommendations, travel for interviews, lodging for interviews, and preparation for admissions exams, in addition to the actual costs of admissions exams. Start saving early.” –Leah P. ’12, Doctor of Dentistry, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
“Get your employer to pay for it.” –Adrienne W. ’11
“Don’t trust all of the course offerings that are listed on a program or school’s website. If you are interested in a particular set of classes, call the school and ask when they were last offered, or look at online syllabi to find out. Some of the classes that sold me on the school I went to ultimately weren’t offered in the time I was there.” –Jonathan A. ’09, Master of Professional Studies in Legislative Affairs, George Washington University
“Think about the cost and your projected career salary. As someone who chose a big name school but ultimately desires to work in a low paying field, I sometimes question if the big name of Northwestern was worth the cost.” –Anonymous, Master of Arts, Northwestern University
“There will be a lot of pressure to move on within academia to a doctorate program. If that’s not what you want, then have a good explanation of why it’s not for you.” –Melissa B. ’17, Engineering
“It is super-competitive (just like anything). I underestimated how difficult it would be to get into a top MBA program. Make sure you prepare and work hard for it to get what you want.” –Michael D. ’13, Finance
“I wish I had done more research on programs that are similar to the ones that I am in now.” –Ariana C. ’18, Engineering
“I wish that there can be a bigger pre-med community and peer mentoring scene in UR. I learned a lot of tips about applying to medicine after I got in, and I think a platform for UR premeds can make the application cycle less intimidating for applicants.” –Jianyu T. ’18, Medicine
“They aren’t kidding when they say it’s entirely different from undergrad. It’s a different kind of independence. There is a different adjusting period. And the work is a lot harder and you do it all day. But take it one day at a time and remember why you’re doing it!” –Anastacia B. ’18, Law
“Get some experience in the field prior to going to graduate school. Graduate school will help you in your work, and your work will help you in graduate school.” –Anonymous, Master of Arts
“It’s harder to get back into school mode after working for a while.” –Angie S. ’11, Doctor of Philosophy
“I wish I had a better concept of a manageable workload/class-time when selecting a program. In this program, classes run 6:25-10 p.m. I am often tired during the work week. Also, I wish I had spent more time researching whether the institute had an updated curriculum.” –Victoria V. ’10, Master of Business Administration, University of Maryland
“Loan consolidation and financial management.” –Anonymous, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Maryland College Park
“What jobs for engineers are like if they have a MS versus a PhD.” –Chad H. ’12, Master of Science, MIT
“Graduate study depends a lot upon self-motivation. In undergraduate school, you went to class and wrote papers or did assigned problem sets outside of class. In graduate school, you dictate your own schedule and are expected to complete research and keep momentum in your project all while being a TA and completing your own coursework. It’s definitely possible, but it just takes a little while to adjust if you’re not used to working in such an unstructured environment.” –Emily W. ’10, Master of Science, University of Delaware/Winterthur Museum
“Take your GREs or GMATs right after college—you will absolutely regret waiting.” –Leah O. ’09, Master of Business Administration, Boston University
“That legal writing is nothing like writing for your college classes. Analysis is more focused and less academic.” –Anonymous, Juris Doctorate, University at Buffalo Law School
“Don’t be fooled by fancy or big name schools. Shop around and explore what state schools have to offer. If you’re specializing in a field that has state-specific licenses, consider what areas of the country you are likely to be in after you graduate.” –Megan H. ’09, Masters of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis
“Your path or field may change even after you finish your graduate degree.” –Emily H. ’12, Non-Profit
“Start earlier than you think is humanly possible. The difference between extraordinary and ordinary is a little extra.” –Joshua K. ’18, Medicine
“I wish I had known that applying is like an extra class! Preparing for the LSAT, getting recommendations, interviewing, and writing essays and filling out applications is hugely time consuming and taxing. Students should carve out space in their schedule to be able to dedicate proper time and energy to the application process.” –Eileen R. ’18, Juris Doctor, Boston College Law School
“There are expectations, even of graduate students, that are well above those of undergrads and I wasn’t ready for that change. There is a lot more “Do this on your own,” that professors assume you know about and don’t always say explicitly. It’s a different attitude that can be tough to get used to it you aren’t ready for it.” –Matt A. ’16, Engineering
“I wish I had known how small the world of science is. All of our professors are very connected.” –Amy E. ’16, Science/Research
“Before applying, I wish I had compiled better information of where I was looking geographically, within the field, and to what level of school. Reminiscent of applying to college, it can be difficult to assess where you should apply based on GPA, test scores, and the intangibles. The latter category can be even harder to assess after four years of college, as applicants have a wide array of experiences and resume items.” –Dominick S. ’16, Law
“Teaching is hard, and from what I hear, a lot of schools expect graduate students to start teaching with no training or support. I wish I had known earlier that I was not alone in feeling like I had no idea how to teach a class, and that I judged myself way more harshly than my students did.” –Katherine V. ’15
“Be aware that scholarships and grants for funding graduate/professional school will become rarer as you keep going, so be prepared for loans and more budgeting/ juggling school and work to make ends meet.” –Stephanie S. ’16, Military
“I went to school in the UK, which was a new experience for me. I wish I had been more prepared for the different teaching style and learned to use it to my advantage. It was a huge learning experience for me in many ways.” –Jaclyn S. ’11, Non-Profit
“I could have been clearer about my career goals; it is a trade-off between having a target and constantly exploring new frontiers of meaningful actions. It becomes crucial to know what you want, and be able to keep the composure and carry on with it.” –Robin W. ’14
“If you stay in Rochester, make sure to pay attention to the balance you strike between all your old campus habits and the new opportunities available to you. Stay in touch with your old friends and mentors, but make sure to make new contacts as well who may become treasured friends and invaluable resources to you.” –Maya K. ’16
“Don’t be intimidated! Graduate school is different from undergraduate life in many ways. The peers you look up to as an undergraduate are usually seniors who are just getting a sense of what the field looks like. However, as a graduate student, the senior graduate students and post-docs you will work with have been working in your field for about twice as long as you, and will seem almost unattainable, knowledgeable, and savvy. Relax, pace yourself, and realize some things – like building expertise – simply take time!” –Steven T. ’16, Science/Research
“I wish I knew just how much my life would be changing. I just expected to be working harder in lab and in graduate classes, but I was not expecting complicated interpersonal work/professional relationships, or the amount of self-motivation/determination that would be required of me. With everything that has to be balanced, prioritizing and time-management are crucial (which I didn’t know I had any issues with until entering graduate school). But I’ve also learned that no one really has it all together at this stage and comparison will only drive you crazy.” –Ashley B. ’17, Science/Research
Other Post-Graduation Opportunities
“Do something that calls you. It has to be something that comes from within. Do what you love, not what other people want you to do. Believe.” –Rory-Stefan A. ’15, Higher Education
“If you have a technical background, keep in mind that through alternative opportunities, like Teach for America or Peace Corps, your technical knowledge may slowly disappear from lack of practice and interaction with the material. It’s better to stick with opportunities that are still in the same field as your major so you can use that information while it’s still fresh in your mind, rather than have to re-learn it when you enter the workforce again.” –Michaela K. ’15, Master of Science, Johns Hopkins University
“Travel abroad! I travel every year for three weeks to different countries. It’s the best life experience.” –Isabella T.V. ’14, Master of Business Administration, University of Rochester
“Understand the regulations and guidelines of the organization. For example, AmeriCorps follows certain guidelines because it is federally funded. Decide if those guidelines are deal breakers for you.” –Anansa B. ’15
“I am currently serving a term with AmeriCorps VISTA. This is a great option for anyone who wants to take a year of service for a great cause. It’s great work and you feel like you’re actually making a change. In addition, you receive a ton of benefits and an added resume booster.” –Kendra H. ’14, Master of Public Health, Undecided
“Talk to graduates and explore the options!” –Jianyu T. ’18, Medicine
“I’m completing graduate school currently, but I was ultimately more interested in positions in industry. The academic to industry barrier is difficult to pass without internship experience or other networking opportunities. Make sure to emphasize any internship experience if you have it, or other times where you worked on collaborative projects that would be applicable for the product-based workforce.” –Melissa B. ’17, Engineering
“I’m serving in AmeriCorps VISTA through the Rochester Youth Year program out of the Rochester Center for Community Leadership (RCCL). My advice is to choose something because you’re passionate about the cause. Going into something without being prepared to fully invest is fair to no one.” –Matias P. ’14
“Above all, follow your heart. Whether it is entering the workforce, applying to graduate programs, or other programs like AmeriCorps and Teach for America, you can do the most good when you’re doing something you’re passionate about. Through your passion, you can inspire others to do the best they can do.” –Morgan P. ’15, Master of Business Administration, University of Massachusetts Amherst
“It is the hardest job you will ever do, but also the most rewarding!” –Alesa Y. ’15, Master of Arts, Undecided
“KEY at U of R was one of the best year-long experiences I could have asked for.” –Ben W. ’15, Doctor of Medicine, Wright State University
“For the Fulbright Program, meet with the Fellowships Office early and often. Show your application materials to as many people as possible so you have many perspectives to incorporate into your essays. Pursue a fellowship or research project that is genuinely aligned to your interests. If you pursue one merely because “it looks good,” it will probably come out in the interview or your application.” –Lauren K. ’15, Government
“Any opportunity that lets you travel to a lot of different places is a great opportunity. I have been lucky enough to travel to over a dozen countries around the world and it has had a significant impact on how I approach life and my work.” –David L. ’09
“Do it. Do whatever you want. Don’t listen to other people who say you have to get a job or go to grad school or do this, that, or the other thing. You get one life, one decade that is your twenties, do that thing you always wanted to do but never could because some- one told you that you HAD to go to school and get a job and all that ‘important’ stuff. You know what it is. Just do it.” –Patrick A. ’14
“Teach for America has been an incredible opportunity for me to start a career in education. My school struggles greatly to find qualified science teachers so I feel extremely valued. Teach for America also serves as a platform for me to think about critical issues in education. This is a very important time with the implementation of the Common Core, so I feel extremely challenged and fulfilled investing my energy in this field.” –Emily H. ’12
“I didn’t, but you have 30+ years to work, so taking 1-2 years to do Teach For America or travel is an awesome idea and does not detract from your work that much. Experiences will allow you to connect with people in your future.” –Chad H. ’12
“Don’t do it to build your resume, do it because you want to learn, grow, or better the world.” –Anonymous
“Always be open to new experiences. Regardless of whether you hate it or love it, you will gain tools for your next job/opportunity.” –Angie S. ’11
“I traveled abroad extensively. If you can make it work, I say do it. You will never regret traveling somewhere.” –Jaclyn S. ’11, Non-Profit
“Everything you do is useful. Each experience you have, especially if it is different from what you’ve done in the past, will give you a new perspective on who you are and what is important to you, and will contribute to a stronger sense of what to do next. It’s okay to step off the treadmill and deviate from your straight and narrow path. From personal experience with Teach for America, followed by research at the NIH, time is measured not so much by filling a ‘gap’ as it is about moving forward in your adult life, cultivating new and old passions, no matter how circuitous a route it may seem you’re taking.” –Brandon P. ’12
“It is great to be able to work for a better world; at the same time, never use it as an excuse and delay your actions.” –Robin W. ’14
“I would say to keep an open mind. Just because someone told you that you have to do X, Y, Z to reach your educational goal does not mean that’s the only way to do it. Many paths lead to the same result, so it’s really about the journey: did you grow and learn? Can you apply that experience to what you do in the future? And above all, know that plans change, so be okay with it. It all works out in the end, if you don’t give up on yourself and do what you know is right.” –Stephanie S. ’16, Military
“I am currently thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, almost 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine. This has been a dream of mine since I was 10 years old. I’m also hoping to attend medical school and am currently working on applications from the trail. My advice to undergrads: If there’s something you really want to do, even if it’s unrelated to your career goals, do it! Although it’s not directly related to medicine, I’ve learned so much by talking with other people on the trail. Make the most out of the time after graduation by doing something you’re passionate about!” –Gina D. ’16
“There are fellowships out there specifically for young professionals. Take advantage of them, provided that they are the right fit for you and your goals, while you are still in the target age range. Jobs come and go, but these experiences are often once in a lifetime, literally and figuratively.” –Alysha A. ’15
“I joined the Rochester Youth Year AmeriCorps and have gained so much from this year of service. I can see how my work is impacting the community I live and work in. I am also gaining so much valuable training and skills that are only making me a more marketable employee.” –Delia C.N. ’17, Education