When I applied to graduate school, I was fortunate to have a few great programs to choose from and made sure to attend the Admitted Student Days to confirm my selection. Those events were worth every penny of transportation cost.
The 1st school I went to was a top choice, as I had mentors who had graduated from that program. Mid-afternoon there was a panel of current students talking about social events and student experience. They raved about pub nights, tailgates, and cohort parties. One brave soul in the front raised their hand and asked “I don’t drink… are there any events that aren’t focused on alcohol?” There was a deeply uncomfortable pause from the panel, followed by some awkward “Umm…I’m sure there is!” I feel bad that this is my most salient memory of the whole event.
The 2nd school I visited had a two day Admitted Student Program. On Day 1 we were treated to hours of lecturing on the program details. It felt like an all day info session, and they were leaning in hard on preparation for a functional area that was not my interest. I declined my acceptance before Day 2 and enjoyed a day exploring the city instead.
The 3rd school I visited was another top contender. I met with the Program Director, toured the campus, met with a couple current students, and left ready to deposit. This institution checked every box I was looking for and more. It had the rankings, the curriculum, the rigor, all of it. It seemed that my decision was made.
But then came school #4.
I arrived to meet a cozy group of about 20 people. There were some familiar faces in the crowd, and I remember comparing notes with Christine on some of the previous schools we had visited. Our Program Director sat us in a circle, and the community building began. No hard-selling, just people getting to know one another. I remember some of the faculty coming through to say hello and welcome, and eating lunch outside with Ashley and Nikki who would become good friends.
As someone on the younger end, I could plainly see just how much I would learn from being in the classroom with these folks. I loved seeing the differences in professional interests and backgrounds. The day ended with an assistantship fair so we could meet different offices and possible supervisors. I had already submitted a deposit to hold my seat at School #3. But it was really no contest after a day with School #4.
As our campuses prepare to welcome admitted students to preview what their time with us will feel like, I hope to hear more stories of meaningful human connection infused in these events.
For me, it wasn’t the ranking, or the library, or football team (all of which are wonderful!) that made UCLA the clear choice for graduate school. It was the people. The real live humans who made the experience, within and beyond the classroom, the perfect match for me.
