Alumni Advice: Considering Graduate School
Graduate school can be an important step in your career journey, and St. Thomas alumni know firsthand what it takes to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
We asked alumni on St. Thomas Connect: “What advice do you have for Tommies considering going to graduate school?” Their insights cover preparation, timing, networking, and what truly matters when taking the next step in your education.
Looking for more community or mentorship as you explore graduate school? Visit St. Thomas Connect, our dedicated platform where Tommies engage, learn, and support one another. Check the “Connect → Community” tab to explore alumni by degree, industry, or topic, and start building your network today.
Find your why, understand your path.
Graduate school is a significant investment of time, money, and energy. Alumni emphasized the importance of knowing why you want this next step, and whether it aligns with your long-term goals.
“When it comes to grad school, really consider ‘your why and when.’ Too many people focus on the ‘what and where.'”
John Abel
“Going to graduate school is a big step that would benefit from planning and research. At least one year in advance, be able to answer: ‘What are the benefits of ‘X’ program for you in your life, and how will completing it help you professionally?'”
Julie Luker
Don’t do it just for the title. Go to grow!
Several alumni shared that the value of graduate school isn’t the letters after your name, it’s the learning, growth, and opportunities to deepen your skills.
“The decision to attend grad school is a big one. It is a major investment in both money & time and therefore should not be taken lightly. I would highly recommend the part-time MBA program at UST, but don’t do it for the additional letters after your name on your LinkedIn profile. Do it for you. Do it to learn, to grow and to work skillfully to advance the common good. Roll Toms!”
Dave Marrese
Build your network and seek mentors.
Graduate school is one of the best places to expand your professional community. Alumni stressed how impactful mentors and connections were before, during, and after their programs.
“Talk to your undergrad mentors about programs they think you would excel in! They know you as a learner and will be able to guide you in the best direction for your future and career goals.
Amber Neid
“Identify a mentor, coach that will assist with career options.”
Tim Pollard
“If considering a PhD program, especially in the Humanities, reach out to professors accepting students at the University you are interested in attending as a quick introduction. Explain your interests and ask specific questions – don’t reach out “just to reach out.” If they don’t respond – no big deal. If they do, you’ll be better for it!”
Ellen Patronas
Work experience matters. For many, it makes grad school better
Many alumni said that having work experience before graduate school made coursework more meaningful and allowed them to bring valuable context into the classroom.
“I strongly recommend taking a job and getting 2-3 years’ experience before grad school… First, you will enter grad school with some practical experience which will really help you put the topics into context, and second, your employer may be willing to pay for some or all of your grad school. “
Tom Fischer
“My work experience enriched my graduate school experience, and I believe enabled me to bring more into the classroom as well as take more from the classroom back to my organization in a meaningful and impactful way.“
Daniel Hildebrandt
Timing Looks Different for Everyone
There is no one “right” moment to start graduate school. Some alumni recommend going right away while you’re still in school mode.
“If you are going to continue with schooling, there is no time like the present. You’re in school mode and it might be an easier transition to get right into graduate school.”
Steven Olsen
“I waited for 15+ years before going on to Graduate School. If I had to do it again, I would have gone right away. This way things are nice and fresh.”
Linda Ladley
Prepare Early and Do Your Research
From application materials to budgeting to choosing full-time vs part-time study, alumni highlight the importance of planning ahead.
“For your letters… Find a senior professor who can discuss your research skills, written work and presentations, work habits, and your standing relative to other students.”
Arnold Fleischmann
“Applying to grad school is quite the process. It entails detailed applications, writing samples, and letters of recommendation. If applying in a fall application cycle, I’d recommend beginning to gather your materials in the early summer. “
Ellen Patronas
“Can you afford it out of pocket, or will you need loans to cover it? Also, consider if you have the ability to go to grad school full time, or part time.
Thomas Engrav
Tap into the Tommie Network
Exploring graduate school is a journey, and you don’t need to figure it out alone. The Tommie Network is here to help you reflect, research, and make confident decisions about your next steps.
You can find support through:
- St. Thomas Connect – Alumni mentors & program conversations
- Career Development Center – Coaching, resume reviews, grad school planning
- Faculty and Advisors – Insight into program pathways
- Workshops & Events – Info sessions, student panels, and networking
Your graduate school path is unique. Whether you start right away or take time to gain experience, remember: your purpose, preparation, and connections will guide you.
