Although it used to be that getting a four-year degree was enough, now more than 35% of all students that receive a bachelor's degree go on to graduate school and receive a higher degree, such as a masters or doctorate within ten years of graduating. This means that more than one-third of all college graduates will go on to obtain higher degrees. But how does one transition from being an undergraduate to a graduate student? And what are some of the benefits, or hidden disadvantages, that one should expect as a graduate student? To answer these questions and others, I interviewed Bobby Galovics (graduate, architecture), a graduate student here at AU.
What are you studying, and what made you choose Andrews for your graduate school? Where did you go to school previously?
I am in the Masters of Architecture program. I chose Andrews University for architecture because Andrews has an accelerated Master of Architecture program in which you can finish in five years, compared to six years in other schools. The more mission mindedness of the Andrews Architecture program was something I appreciated, compared to a more materialistic emphasis in other schools. As I did my undergrad here at Andrews, I also enjoyed the professors, and most of my friends were still here as well.
What is your future career goal, and how does grad school fit in/aid in accomplishing that?
The reason I am getting a master's is because for architecture, you need to have a masters to get your architecture license. Upon completion of your masters program, you will need to do a minimum of five years of internships to make you eligible to take the architect’s exam. Once you pass this exam, only then can you receive your license to work as an architect.
What was an unexpected benefit/setback from the transition from undergrad to grad school?
The transition academically was that in the architecture’s master’s program, the projects are no longer hypothetical. You are making projects in real life, so the decisions you make have a greater impact than before. Whether or not your decision was good or bad can cost actual things, you can actually see the effects of your decisions. For instance, the projects and plans you create will actually be implemented, so there is greater pressure to make correct decisions.
What did you enjoy as an undergraduate that you miss now as a grad student?
To be honest, I have been enjoying graduate school more than my undergraduate years, because of the more hands-on experiences in my classes. So I do not really miss anything, as everything I enjoyed in undergraduate school remains, while all the things I did not really like, I don’t have to do anymore.
What is some advice you would give to students who are about to transition into graduate school?
It is the last time you will be in school. So you want to finish strong, but make those years memorable as well. Be sociable, make friends since school is probably going to be the most social years of your life. Think of your best year so far, and try to top it to study better, attend more events, and use those years as a way to make better choices and connections because these are your last school years.
While some might dread graduate school, depending on your choice of career, there can be many benefits as you continue your education. As you are preparing for that transition into graduate school, remember your goals and work hard to achieve them. And while different programs and goals result in different graduate school experiences, enjoying your last few years in university is important. After that, work begins in earnest for most graduates, as internships and residencies begin. So take the time to savor your last years and remember that even this stage of your life will also pass.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.