5 answers
Grey
Student
Miami, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What skill should I strengthen as a future graduate student to better accomplish my goals?
I am on track to graduate in May 2025 with a plan to pursue a Business degree with a Bachelor's in Psychology. Eager to begin this journey, I do not know what awaits me in this field. What preparations and expectations should I have for this degree.
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5 answers
Cheuk Hei Andrew Chan
Certified Career Development Facilitator
11
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Cheuk Hei Andrew’s Answer
Hello Grey,
Congratulations on graduating soon!
Embarking on the journey to find the perfect business degree is an exciting adventure. Here are some steps to help you:
1. Create a List of Targeted Programs:
Dive into the vast world of business. Are you passionate about finance, intrigued by economics, or inspired by management? List what excites you the most. This list will be your launchpad for deeper exploration.
2. Align Degrees with Your Personal Goals:
Dream big and envision your future. Where do you see yourself in the next 1 to 2 years? Whether it's as a financial analyst, a business researcher, or a management trainee gaining diverse experiences, clarity on your goals will help you choose the degree that propels you towards your aspirations.
3. Research Careers and Degrees:
Knowledge is power. Tap into your support network to uncover insights about different industries. Connect with family, relatives, or friends who can shed light on their careers. Attend school talks and career fairs to meet industry leaders. Engage with current students and alumni of your targeted programs to understand the academic and professional landscape awaiting you.
Wishing you all the best on this exciting journey!
Create a List of Targeted Programs
Align Degrees with Your Personal Goals
Research Careers and Degrees
Congratulations on graduating soon!
Embarking on the journey to find the perfect business degree is an exciting adventure. Here are some steps to help you:
1. Create a List of Targeted Programs:
Dive into the vast world of business. Are you passionate about finance, intrigued by economics, or inspired by management? List what excites you the most. This list will be your launchpad for deeper exploration.
2. Align Degrees with Your Personal Goals:
Dream big and envision your future. Where do you see yourself in the next 1 to 2 years? Whether it's as a financial analyst, a business researcher, or a management trainee gaining diverse experiences, clarity on your goals will help you choose the degree that propels you towards your aspirations.
3. Research Careers and Degrees:
Knowledge is power. Tap into your support network to uncover insights about different industries. Connect with family, relatives, or friends who can shed light on their careers. Attend school talks and career fairs to meet industry leaders. Engage with current students and alumni of your targeted programs to understand the academic and professional landscape awaiting you.
Wishing you all the best on this exciting journey!
Cheuk Hei Andrew recommends the following next steps:
anahu d
10
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
anahu’s Answer
As a future graduate student planning to pursue a Business degree with a Bachelor's in Psychology, you're entering a field with diverse opportunities that blend understanding human behavior with business acumen. Here are key skills to strengthen and preparations to make to better accomplish your goals:
### Key Skills to Strengthen
1. **Analytical and Critical Thinking:**
- Both business and psychology require strong analytical skills. You should be able to analyze data, understand research methods, and critically evaluate information.
2. **Communication Skills:**
- Effective communication is crucial. This includes writing clear reports, presenting ideas persuasively, and having strong interpersonal skills for teamwork and leadership.
3. **Quantitative Skills:**
- Business often involves dealing with numbers. Strengthen your skills in statistics, data analysis, and financial literacy.
4. **Research Skills:**
- Psychology heavily relies on research. Understanding how to design studies, collect data, and interpret results will be beneficial.
5. **Problem-Solving Abilities:**
- Develop your ability to identify problems, generate solutions, and implement them effectively.
6. **Emotional Intelligence (EQ):**
- High EQ is important for understanding and managing your own emotions and those of others, which is critical in leadership and teamwork.
7. **Project Management:**
- Learn to plan, execute, and manage projects efficiently. This includes time management, resource allocation, and risk management.
8. **Technology Proficiency:**
- Familiarize yourself with relevant software and tools used in business and psychology, such as statistical software (SPSS, R), project management tools (Asana, Trello), and business analytics platforms.
### Preparations and Expectations
1. **Internships and Practical Experience:**
- Gain practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in both business and psychology settings. This will provide real-world insights and enhance your resume.
2. **Networking:**
- Build a professional network by attending industry conferences, joining relevant associations (like the American Psychological Association or business clubs), and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn.
3. **Graduate Programs Research:**
- Research various graduate programs early to understand their requirements, specializations, and faculty interests. Tailor your undergraduate coursework and experiences to align with these requirements.
4. **Maintain a Strong GPA:**
- Academic performance is important for graduate school applications. Aim for a strong GPA, especially in your major courses.
5. **Research Opportunities:**
- Engage in research projects, whether independently or with professors. This experience is valuable for both your resume and developing critical research skills.
6. **Soft Skills Development:**
- Participate in activities that enhance your soft skills, such as leadership roles in clubs, public speaking, and teamwork exercises.
7. **Graduate Record Examination (GRE):**
- If your intended graduate programs require the GRE, prepare for it well in advance. Consider taking prep courses or using study guides.
8. **Personal Statement and Letters of Recommendation:**
- Start thinking about your personal statement early. Identify professors or professionals who can provide strong letters of recommendation.
9. **Staying Informed:**
- Keep up with current trends and developments in both business and psychology by reading relevant journals, books, and news articles.
### Expectations for the Degree
1. **Interdisciplinary Approach:**
- Expect to integrate concepts from both business and psychology. This interdisciplinary approach will help you understand consumer behavior, organizational dynamics, and human resource management.
2. **Research and Theory:**
- Be prepared to engage deeply with both theoretical frameworks and empirical research. Understanding how psychological principles apply to business contexts will be key.
3. **Capstone Projects or Theses:**
- Many programs require a capstone project or thesis. This will be an opportunity to conduct original research or a comprehensive project that combines your interests in business and psychology.
4. **Practical Applications:**
- Your coursework will likely include practical applications such as case studies, group projects, and internships. These experiences are crucial for bridging theory and practice.
### Key Skills to Strengthen
1. **Analytical and Critical Thinking:**
- Both business and psychology require strong analytical skills. You should be able to analyze data, understand research methods, and critically evaluate information.
2. **Communication Skills:**
- Effective communication is crucial. This includes writing clear reports, presenting ideas persuasively, and having strong interpersonal skills for teamwork and leadership.
3. **Quantitative Skills:**
- Business often involves dealing with numbers. Strengthen your skills in statistics, data analysis, and financial literacy.
4. **Research Skills:**
- Psychology heavily relies on research. Understanding how to design studies, collect data, and interpret results will be beneficial.
5. **Problem-Solving Abilities:**
- Develop your ability to identify problems, generate solutions, and implement them effectively.
6. **Emotional Intelligence (EQ):**
- High EQ is important for understanding and managing your own emotions and those of others, which is critical in leadership and teamwork.
7. **Project Management:**
- Learn to plan, execute, and manage projects efficiently. This includes time management, resource allocation, and risk management.
8. **Technology Proficiency:**
- Familiarize yourself with relevant software and tools used in business and psychology, such as statistical software (SPSS, R), project management tools (Asana, Trello), and business analytics platforms.
### Preparations and Expectations
1. **Internships and Practical Experience:**
- Gain practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in both business and psychology settings. This will provide real-world insights and enhance your resume.
2. **Networking:**
- Build a professional network by attending industry conferences, joining relevant associations (like the American Psychological Association or business clubs), and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn.
3. **Graduate Programs Research:**
- Research various graduate programs early to understand their requirements, specializations, and faculty interests. Tailor your undergraduate coursework and experiences to align with these requirements.
4. **Maintain a Strong GPA:**
- Academic performance is important for graduate school applications. Aim for a strong GPA, especially in your major courses.
5. **Research Opportunities:**
- Engage in research projects, whether independently or with professors. This experience is valuable for both your resume and developing critical research skills.
6. **Soft Skills Development:**
- Participate in activities that enhance your soft skills, such as leadership roles in clubs, public speaking, and teamwork exercises.
7. **Graduate Record Examination (GRE):**
- If your intended graduate programs require the GRE, prepare for it well in advance. Consider taking prep courses or using study guides.
8. **Personal Statement and Letters of Recommendation:**
- Start thinking about your personal statement early. Identify professors or professionals who can provide strong letters of recommendation.
9. **Staying Informed:**
- Keep up with current trends and developments in both business and psychology by reading relevant journals, books, and news articles.
### Expectations for the Degree
1. **Interdisciplinary Approach:**
- Expect to integrate concepts from both business and psychology. This interdisciplinary approach will help you understand consumer behavior, organizational dynamics, and human resource management.
2. **Research and Theory:**
- Be prepared to engage deeply with both theoretical frameworks and empirical research. Understanding how psychological principles apply to business contexts will be key.
3. **Capstone Projects or Theses:**
- Many programs require a capstone project or thesis. This will be an opportunity to conduct original research or a comprehensive project that combines your interests in business and psychology.
4. **Practical Applications:**
- Your coursework will likely include practical applications such as case studies, group projects, and internships. These experiences are crucial for bridging theory and practice.
Thank you so much for your response, it was incredibly informative and helpful!
Grey
Sarah Halil
IT Quality Analyst
6
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Hello Grey,
As you're just a year away from completing your studies, it would be beneficial to start planning for your professional future. If your school has a career lab, I highly recommend taking advantage of it. If not, reaching out to your school counselor can be a great alternative. They can guide you towards finding suitable internship opportunities.
In addition, there are numerous job forum websites, such as Handshake, which are designed to help students like you find internships. These platforms could serve as an excellent starting point in your career journey.
Best of luck with everything,
Sarah
As you're just a year away from completing your studies, it would be beneficial to start planning for your professional future. If your school has a career lab, I highly recommend taking advantage of it. If not, reaching out to your school counselor can be a great alternative. They can guide you towards finding suitable internship opportunities.
In addition, there are numerous job forum websites, such as Handshake, which are designed to help students like you find internships. These platforms could serve as an excellent starting point in your career journey.
Best of luck with everything,
Sarah
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4968
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Grey,
Strengthening Time Management and Critical Thinking Skills
As a future graduate student pursuing a Business degree with a Bachelor’s in Psychology, there are several key skills that you can strengthen to better accomplish your goals. Two of the most important skills to focus on are time management and critical thinking.
Time Management
Time management is crucial for success in both college and graduate school. As a student, you will need to balance coursework, extracurricular activities, and potentially even work or internship responsibilities. Developing strong time management skills will help you stay organized, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. Here are some strategies to improve your time management skills:
Create a Schedule: Use a planner or digital calendar to map out your daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. Include class schedules, assignment due dates, study times, and personal commitments. Review your schedule regularly to ensure that you are on track.
Prioritize Tasks: Identify which tasks are most important and require immediate attention. Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to help you prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance.
Set Goals: Set short-term and long-term goals for yourself, both academically and personally. Break down large goals into smaller, manageable tasks that can be completed over time.
Avoid Procrastination: Procrastination can lead to stress and poor performance. Find ways to motivate yourself to start working on tasks earlier rather than leaving them until the last minute.
Take Breaks: Taking regular breaks can actually improve productivity by preventing burnout and maintaining focus. Experiment with different techniques like the Pomodoro Technique or time blocking to find what works best for you.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is another essential skill for success in college and graduate school. It involves analyzing information, evaluating arguments, and making reasoned judgments based on evidence. Here are some strategies to improve your critical thinking skills:
Ask Questions: Encourage curiosity by asking questions about the material you are studying. Seek out additional resources to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.
Analyze Arguments: Practice breaking down arguments into their components (claims, evidence, assumptions) and evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. Identify logical fallacies and biases in arguments presented in class or in readings.
Develop Hypotheses: Learn how to formulate hypotheses based on available evidence and test them through research or experimentation. Be open to revising your hypotheses as new information emerges.
Synthesize Information: Combine information from multiple sources to develop a comprehensive understanding of a topic or issue. Look for patterns, connections, or contradictions between different sources of information.
Communicate Effectively: Clearly articulate your thoughts and ideas through written assignments or presentations using evidence-based reasoning supported by credible sources (either printed books or .edu websites).
Practice active listening when engaging in discussions with peers or instructors to ensure that you understand their perspectives before responding with your own ideas or arguments (Wilson & Keil, 2001).
Embrace Mistakes: Recognize that making mistakes is an essential part of learning (Klein & Zechmeister, 2016). Reflect on your errors and use them as opportunities for growth by adjusting your approach moving forward (Bjork & Bjork, 2011).
By focusing on improving both time management and critical thinking skills during your undergraduate studies, you will be well-prepared for success as a graduate student pursuing a Business degree with a Bachelor’s in Psychology career pathway while maintaining work-life balance expectations (Center for Teaching Excellence at University of Kansas).
Authoritative References Used:
Center for Teaching Excellence at University of Kansas (n.d.). Time Management Strategies: Tips for College Students [PDF]. Retrieved from https://cte.ku.edu/sites/default/files/documents/
TimeManagementStrategies_TipsForCollegeStudents_CTEatKU_042021_FINAL%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%.pdf
Klein, S., & Zechmeister, E.-M., (2016). The Benefits of Being Wrong: Understanding Confirmation Bias Learning from Mistakes [Video]. Retrieved from https://www3.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/capd/uploads/Teaching_Learning_Resources/Active_Learning/TheBenefitsOfBeingWrong_ZechmeisterandKlein_TLTWebinarSeries_Spring2016_finalv3_reducedsize_.pdf
Wilson, T., & Keil, F., (2001). The Misunderstood Limits of Folk Science: An Illusion of Explanatory Depth [PDF]. Retrieved from <https://www3 .ndsu .edu/fileadmin/capd/uploads/TeachingLearning_Resources/Active_Learning/
TheMisunderstoodLimitsOfFolkScienceAnIllusionOfExplanatoryDepth _WilsonKeil _TLTWebinarSeries _Spring2016 _finalv3 _reducedsize .pdf
Bjork R., & Bjork E., (2011). Making Things Hard on Yourself: The Benefits of Interleaved Practice [PDF]. Retrieved from <https://www3 .ndsu .edu/fileadmin/capd/uploads/TeachingLearning_Resources/Active_Learning /
MakingThingsHardOnYourselfTheBenefitsOfInterleavedPractice _BjorkAndBjork _TLTWebinarSeries _Spring2016 _finalv3 _reducedsize .pdf>
God Bless,
JC.
Strengthening Time Management and Critical Thinking Skills
As a future graduate student pursuing a Business degree with a Bachelor’s in Psychology, there are several key skills that you can strengthen to better accomplish your goals. Two of the most important skills to focus on are time management and critical thinking.
Time Management
Time management is crucial for success in both college and graduate school. As a student, you will need to balance coursework, extracurricular activities, and potentially even work or internship responsibilities. Developing strong time management skills will help you stay organized, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. Here are some strategies to improve your time management skills:
Create a Schedule: Use a planner or digital calendar to map out your daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. Include class schedules, assignment due dates, study times, and personal commitments. Review your schedule regularly to ensure that you are on track.
Prioritize Tasks: Identify which tasks are most important and require immediate attention. Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to help you prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance.
Set Goals: Set short-term and long-term goals for yourself, both academically and personally. Break down large goals into smaller, manageable tasks that can be completed over time.
Avoid Procrastination: Procrastination can lead to stress and poor performance. Find ways to motivate yourself to start working on tasks earlier rather than leaving them until the last minute.
Take Breaks: Taking regular breaks can actually improve productivity by preventing burnout and maintaining focus. Experiment with different techniques like the Pomodoro Technique or time blocking to find what works best for you.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is another essential skill for success in college and graduate school. It involves analyzing information, evaluating arguments, and making reasoned judgments based on evidence. Here are some strategies to improve your critical thinking skills:
Ask Questions: Encourage curiosity by asking questions about the material you are studying. Seek out additional resources to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.
Analyze Arguments: Practice breaking down arguments into their components (claims, evidence, assumptions) and evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. Identify logical fallacies and biases in arguments presented in class or in readings.
Develop Hypotheses: Learn how to formulate hypotheses based on available evidence and test them through research or experimentation. Be open to revising your hypotheses as new information emerges.
Synthesize Information: Combine information from multiple sources to develop a comprehensive understanding of a topic or issue. Look for patterns, connections, or contradictions between different sources of information.
Communicate Effectively: Clearly articulate your thoughts and ideas through written assignments or presentations using evidence-based reasoning supported by credible sources (either printed books or .edu websites).
Practice active listening when engaging in discussions with peers or instructors to ensure that you understand their perspectives before responding with your own ideas or arguments (Wilson & Keil, 2001).
Embrace Mistakes: Recognize that making mistakes is an essential part of learning (Klein & Zechmeister, 2016). Reflect on your errors and use them as opportunities for growth by adjusting your approach moving forward (Bjork & Bjork, 2011).
By focusing on improving both time management and critical thinking skills during your undergraduate studies, you will be well-prepared for success as a graduate student pursuing a Business degree with a Bachelor’s in Psychology career pathway while maintaining work-life balance expectations (Center for Teaching Excellence at University of Kansas).
Authoritative References Used:
Center for Teaching Excellence at University of Kansas (n.d.). Time Management Strategies: Tips for College Students [PDF]. Retrieved from https://cte.ku.edu/sites/default/files/documents/
TimeManagementStrategies_TipsForCollegeStudents_CTEatKU_042021_FINAL%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%5B1%5D%.pdf
Klein, S., & Zechmeister, E.-M., (2016). The Benefits of Being Wrong: Understanding Confirmation Bias Learning from Mistakes [Video]. Retrieved from https://www3.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/capd/uploads/Teaching_Learning_Resources/Active_Learning/TheBenefitsOfBeingWrong_ZechmeisterandKlein_TLTWebinarSeries_Spring2016_finalv3_reducedsize_.pdf
Wilson, T., & Keil, F., (2001). The Misunderstood Limits of Folk Science: An Illusion of Explanatory Depth [PDF]. Retrieved from <https://www3 .ndsu .edu/fileadmin/capd/uploads/TeachingLearning_Resources/Active_Learning/
TheMisunderstoodLimitsOfFolkScienceAnIllusionOfExplanatoryDepth _WilsonKeil _TLTWebinarSeries _Spring2016 _finalv3 _reducedsize .pdf
Bjork R., & Bjork E., (2011). Making Things Hard on Yourself: The Benefits of Interleaved Practice [PDF]. Retrieved from <https://www3 .ndsu .edu/fileadmin/capd/uploads/TeachingLearning_Resources/Active_Learning /
MakingThingsHardOnYourselfTheBenefitsOfInterleavedPractice _BjorkAndBjork _TLTWebinarSeries _Spring2016 _finalv3 _reducedsize .pdf>
God Bless,
JC.
Nikolaos Zormpas
Global Manager – Digital Services Offerings / Technology, Software & Services Offerings Marketing
78
Answers
Athens, Greece
Updated
Nikolaos’s Answer
Hi Grey!
Lots of amazing advices already! If I could add some ideas to this conversation I would tell you thay you may also find useful to develop your cultural competence since, in an increasingly globalized world, understanding diverse cultural perspectives is vital. This skill will enable you to navigate international business environments and work effectively with people from various backgrounds. You can enhance cultural competence through travel, learning new languages, or even participating in multicultural events and discussions.
Additionally, you can focus on storytelling and narrative skills. In both business and psychology, the ability to tell a compelling story can be really valuable. Whether you're presenting research findings, pitching a business idea, or crafting a marketing campaign, strong narrative skills will help you communicate your message more effectively and engage your audience more emotionally.
I am also thinking that working on resilience and stress management techniques, can be equally valuable. Graduate school and professional life can be demanding, and the ability to manage stress and recover from setbacks is crucial. There are many practices, that can help maintain your well-being and keep you focused on your goals, so I would advice you to research online.
In general I would tell you that you should prioritize continuous learning and adaptability. The fields of business and psychology are dynamic, with new theories, technologies, and practices emerging regularly. If you cultivate a habit of lifelong learning by staying curious, seeking out new knowledge, and being open to change, you will set the stage for an always relevant and innovative career.
Best regards,
Nikolas
Lots of amazing advices already! If I could add some ideas to this conversation I would tell you thay you may also find useful to develop your cultural competence since, in an increasingly globalized world, understanding diverse cultural perspectives is vital. This skill will enable you to navigate international business environments and work effectively with people from various backgrounds. You can enhance cultural competence through travel, learning new languages, or even participating in multicultural events and discussions.
Additionally, you can focus on storytelling and narrative skills. In both business and psychology, the ability to tell a compelling story can be really valuable. Whether you're presenting research findings, pitching a business idea, or crafting a marketing campaign, strong narrative skills will help you communicate your message more effectively and engage your audience more emotionally.
I am also thinking that working on resilience and stress management techniques, can be equally valuable. Graduate school and professional life can be demanding, and the ability to manage stress and recover from setbacks is crucial. There are many practices, that can help maintain your well-being and keep you focused on your goals, so I would advice you to research online.
In general I would tell you that you should prioritize continuous learning and adaptability. The fields of business and psychology are dynamic, with new theories, technologies, and practices emerging regularly. If you cultivate a habit of lifelong learning by staying curious, seeking out new knowledge, and being open to change, you will set the stage for an always relevant and innovative career.
Best regards,
Nikolas