Exploring Further Education
Whether you're considering a Master's, PhD, or specialized certifications, we offer resources to help you explore your options, plan your next steps, and connect with advisors. Take the next step in your academic and professional journey with the support you need to succeed.
Get strong references from appropriate sources
You don’t just need profs to agree to write you a reference letter – you need good strong references. Since these are confidential, you won’t be able to see them, so here are a few things you can do to improve the quality of your references.
Ideal Timeline of What to Do When
Because entry into many programs can be competitive, you need to craft an application package that will get you noticed by a selection committee.
Practice your graduate school interview skills
Certain graduate schools require interviews as part of the selection process—including medical and dental school. Are you prepared?
Resumé or CV – what’s the difference?
The differences between a CV and a resumé aren’t carved in stone. In fact, in Canada and the United States, the terms are often used interchangeably. Generally speaking though, if what you are trying to foreground is your knowledge of a field, you want to lean more towards a CV. If you want to highlight your relevant skills and experience for a position – then a resumé would be a better choice.
Determine your educational needs and wants
Perhaps the career you're interested in requires a graduate education or a post-degree program or maybe you've determined that a post-degree diploma or certificate would make you a more desirable candidate in your chosen occupation.
Research educational options
If you've determined that the occupation you're interested in requires post- graduate study—or that you would increase your odds of success in your chosen career with some education beyond the Bachelor's level—begin to research the different programs available and the institutions that offer them.
Talk to representatives from different schools and programs
You can set up appointments to do this or attend one of the information sessions that many programs offer prior to the application date.
10 Tips for Writing a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement showcases who you are, your achievements and is a valuable step in your application. Here are 10 tips for writing a strong personal statement...
Personal Statement FAQ
If you have a question that you think might be relevant to other students, send it to us at career@yorku.ca with the subject line “Personal Statement – FAQ” and you will get a response. If it’s common enough, we’ll post it here too!
Support resources for writing a strong personal statement
You may book personal statement appointments with the knowledgeable and experienced writing instructors in the LA&PS and Bethune Writing Centre.
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