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Grad vs. Undergrad

What is the most important part to undergrad in order to be successful if going to grad school?

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Eric’s Answer

Shelagh, one of the biggest differences between undergrad and graduate studies is how a student interacts with other students and with professors. Generally - especially at large universities - undergrads are in larger classes and with that come fewer opportunities to interact with the professor. As well, it is likely that only a few of the students from one class are in most of your other classes in your field of study. In graduate school, you will, for the most part, be in the same classes with the same group of students as other graduates in your field of study. To prepare for such graduate conditions, I suggest developing the habit of joining with as many study groups as reasonable during your undergraduate studies. Also, take advantage of opportunities to visit with your professors outside of class time. That time with them in their offices could be used to ask questions about the coursework or about how to prepare for graduate school or what coursework to focus on to prepare for your desired professional emphasis once you graduate. Being able to work well with your fellow students and professors will be an essential component of your graduate studies.
All the best,
Eric
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Paul’s Answer

For me it was successfully completing the courses required for grad school.

Each graduate program will have academic standards (GPA) and testing requirements for admission.

Successful students can utilize their undergraduate majors to meet the course requirements to meet the standards for graduate school.

Also, focus on the graduate school requirements for testing. Law schools may have an LSAT requirement, business may have a GMAT and others may have a GRE needed for admission.

So, in answering your question, I would research the undergraduate courses required and the graduate school tests needed for admission.
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Fatimat’s Answer

Furthering education is a good and bold step in the present century. So, kudos to anyone willing to continue.
The first and main thing to consider is your grade and the work start from the first semester in School till graduation.
After which, relationship with professors is essential. Let's assume I am your professor and you character when in undergraduate school is bad, you now later come to me for letter of reference, what do you think I will do?. Will I write any or if at all I do will it favour you?. That's why behaviour, attitude and character is paramount in any aspect of life.
Also, makes sure you participate in the school activities and join clubs like research club, school political activity etc.
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Erwin’s Answer

Obtaining the best GPA in your field. Even if it is different than the graduate degree you wish to obtain. Get the highest GPA and the application process to grad school will be easier.
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Rachel’s Answer

I think your answer is going to vary significantly depending on the type of graduate school you are interested in (MBA, PhD, JD, etc). I can speak from the PhD perspective and say that it is very important during undergrad to develop an understanding of your own learning and working styles. For example, how to you manage your time ? How do you manage your mental health? How do you deal with conflict? Do you prefer hands-off or hands-on management in your work?
These types of questions will help you get the information you need when interviewing with potential professors/advisors and can help you determine if that supervisor, lab group, or department will be a good fit for you.
As mentioned by others, it's important to find an area of study that is interesting and engaging - it is also important to find a working environment that will support your success. Undergrad is a great time to explore a variety of classes, topics, and projects, and figure out what learning environments work for you!
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Derek’s Answer

When I look back at what was valuable in my undergrad time as applied to my graduate work, I would say the 'top 3' list is as follows:

1) Get to the point: refining logical, critical thinking and synthesis skills
2) It's on me: developing self discipline and healthy work/study habits
3) Forming the big picture: moving beyond facts and information and getting much better at building mental frameworks and models to understand the context

Of course, subject matter content from undergrad can/will carry over. But I would suggest these three things happen during undergrad if you really put the time and effort into it, helping to unlock and better prepare you for graduate work.
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Laura’s Answer

Hi Tia! Lots of great advice already provided here. I'd add one thing: choose a field that you actually enjoy and care about! If you are thinking about graduate school as well as an undergraduate program, that is likely at least 6 years of education; you will do much better and enjoy your time a lot more if you are spending those 6 years studying something that you care about. It can be tempting to pick a major based on average salaries or what seems the most prestigious, but if that leads you to a subject that you don't like or care about, it will be hard to stay focused enough to be successful in school. My advice is to take your time and take a variety of classes early in undergrad, so you can figure out what you really enjoy and then focus in that area.
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