1) Remember That Classes Aren’t Everything

Grad school is a totally different type of school than what you have experienced in the past. Classes are important- you need to show up, do the work, and do your best, but you should keep in mind that classes aren’t all you are here for. Grad school is a platform and an opportunity to expand your networks. Try to meet faculty throughout the school, get involved in the community, you never know what might turn into a TA or internship opportunity. Also make the most of your cohort, your classmates will be your friends, but they will also read drafts of your papers, and collaborate with you on projects and presentations.

2) Take Time for Self-Care

You may think that staying up all night and living off endless cups of coffee is all part of the grad student experience but that can lead to major burnout. Healthy lunches, sleep schedules, and time to stretch, move, socialize, and relax will sustain you in the long run.

3) Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

There are many resources available to you, from free counseling sessions, to free research and writing help at the Academic Support Center in the Library. If you are struggling, reach out to your program Chair, an academic advisor, the Office of Student Life, or other grad students to help you get the resources you need.

4) Put Yourself Out There

Apply for that scholarship, write that article, and submit to that conference. Seize the opportunities that come your way. Rejection is part of the learning process and it’s good to get used to it early on in your academic career. You will never get any of the opportunities that you want if you are not willing to put your work out there.

5) Take Pleasure Where You Can Find It

An elegant sentence, a masterful close reading, a compelling new theory, you came to graduate school because you love learning and want to be in a community of learners. Do not let your ambition or anxiety rob you of your pleasure. Read, write, think, talk, this experience is for you and it will fly by.