How to Prepare Before You Apply to Graduate School

Applying to graduate school requires preparation. However, though we can readily find information regarding "how to apply," it's far more difficult to know precisely and succinctly how to prepare for applying. Successful preparations are, arguably, just as important as the application process itself. The following advice comes from someone who worked hard, learned, prepared in the following ways, and actually got into graduate school: namely, me.

1. If you don't already have a professor (or another type of relevant professional, e.g. a lawyer or judge) mentoring you, get one. Here's how you go about attaining a mentor. First, pick a professor or two, who you like and for whom you have demonstrated the ability to critically reason your way through somewhat difficult material. If you have already taken classes from these individuals, make sure you got an "A" in their classes. If you are in the midst of your first class(es) with the professors of your choice, make sure that you have shown yourself to be a hard worker, and that you are getting an "A." Next, visit these people during their office hours. Do not "stalk" them--simply explain your interests in pursuing graduate school. Ask them whether you can avail yourself of their advice about this issue throughout the process. You might even consider a bolder approach by asking whether they might consider mentoring you through the process. If they agree, then you have someone who is willing to be active in your development, to a greater or lesser extent, depending on the professor. This is priceless.