Tips for Potential Grad Students: Computer Science/Computer Engineering

Often students only think about the projects they want to work on and neglect to consider other factors that affect their graduate school experience. Your thesis supervisor will have a large impact on your experience and you'll want to ensure that impact is a positive one! What makes for a good supervisor depends on the student; that is, you. Some students want more independence. Some students want frequent meetings to bounce ideas. Figure out what you want and need, which will then allow you to seek it out.

Understand why you want to go into graduate studies. Thesis-based graduate degrees put the onus on you to do your research and it is not an easy task. Having a good reason for graduate studies will help you through any difficult times you may encounter and lead you to success.

Finally, realize that graduate school is there to extend your learning experience. Graduate school offers more flexibility and independence compared to your previous educational experiences. Simultaneously, you are still embedded in a vibrant and stimulating learning environment.  Take the opportunities that are offered to you during that time. This can include courses in other disciplines, teaching experiences (e.g., teaching assistantships), various guest speakers and seminar series, clubs/committees, interdisciplinary research, etc.

Adrian Chan, Department of Systems and Computer Engineering, Carleton University, and 3M National Teaching Fellow.

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