Navigating the transition from student to graduate can be daunting, whether you’re congratulating a friend or contemplating your own journey. You likely have many questions about what lies ahead, seeking insights to illuminate your path.
To help you in this quest for answers, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of questions tailored specifically for graduate students. Whether you’re speaking with recent graduates or those about to graduate, these questions are crafted to spark meaningful conversations and provide valuable insights into the post-graduation journey.
Take a moment to explore the list below, addressing various aspects of the graduate experience. These questions aim to offer clarity and guidance as you embark on this exciting new chapter.
Related: Education Quotes / Icebreaker Questions For Students
Questions to ask graduate students
1. How intense are classes/exams? (hrs/week?)
2. Do you feel there is a collaborative environment with other students?
3. What do you think about [professor you’re interested in]?
4. Is your lab a good one to join?
5. Is the culture here more cooperative or competitive?
6. Why did you choose this program?
7. Do most people join their first choice lab? What does the program do if someone doesn’t find a lab to join by the deadline?
8. Is the program supportive of people switching labs?
9. Does the program do anything in the beginning to help new students to transition into grad school?
10. How much do grad students TA?
11. What do grad students do in their free time?
12. Do most students have a good work/life balance?
13. What kind of social events do people in the program tend to do?
14. Do grad students in this program hang out with each other?
15. Does the program do anything in the beginning to help grad students to bond with each other?
16. What kind of resources does the program offer (e.g. for mental health, career development, learning new skills, etc.)?
17. Does the program check in with grad students even after the first few years?
18. What age range are most grad students?
19. Are most grad students in relationships or single?
20. Do any grad students you know have kids?
21. Do social events tend to be clique-based or is everyone welcome?
22. Are there a lot of international students in the program? If so, are they welcomed by native students?
23. Is there any sort of training for people who want to be better TAs or to go into teaching?
24. Is the program supportive of “alternative careers”?
25. What do you think of the classes? (Were they valuable, did you learn a lot, did they take a lot of effort, etc?)
26. Are there any nightmare professors to avoid?
27. Do you know people who have left the graduate program? Is there support for that?
28. Is there a “central” study area? Or do students mostly work in their offices?
29. How many classes are typical per semester/term? How much time is left for research? Am I expected to do research my first year?
30. What kind of electives do students take?
Related: Funny Interview Questions / Restorative Circle Questions
Conclusion –
These questions are carefully crafted to ensure they are both thoughtful and considerate, avoiding any awkwardness for both the asker and the graduate student. We believe these inquiries will provide valuable insights without overwhelming anyone involved.
We hope these questions meet your expectations and address your needs. Thank you for visiting our page, and we trust that you’ve found the information you were looking for.
