Life after graduation

Students exploring post-graduate learning have an expanded list of opportunities this fall, as Dalhousie hosts its inaugural Grad Studies Fair on Tuesday, Oct. 30.

“The best grad schools in Canada have been looking for direct contact with Dal’s outstanding students and this fair will bridge those connections.” says Laura Addicott, Director of the Career Services Centre (formerly the Student Employment Centre). “Dal students now have access to a full array of career fairs, with this one rounding out the volunteer fair and Halifax career fair in September, and the summer job fair in February.”

This event represents a partnership amongst the Career Services Centre, Faculty of Graduate Studies and Counselling Services Centre. The goal is to respond to students considering post-graduate education with a professionally produced, cost-recovery exposition including Dalhousie departments and other institutions.

Grad Studies Fair: WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 30, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. WHERE: McInnes Room, Student Union Building WHO: It's open to students, alumni, staff and faculty from Dalhousie, and to students and alumni from colleges and universities across the Maritimes FOR MORE INFO: Visit the Career Services Centre website

“This is a chance to find information you won’t find on-line,” says Christine Moore, career counsellor with Dal’s Counselling and Psychological Services. “By talking to representatives, students realize how different schools can be in terms of expectations, atmosphere, resources and so on. Sometimes assumptions or myths lead students to believe they aren’t able or ready for post-grad study, but factors beyond grades, like volunteer work and life experience, are often taken into account.”

The fair isn’t only for students. Faculty and staff can attend to build networks and explore what’s offered at Dalhousie and elsewhere.

For students considering graduate work, from health or environmental research to business or law, Ms. Moore suggests coming prepared with questions. Students may want to:

• inquire about expectations, timelines;
• ask what former students are doing;
• ask to be put in touch with current students and alumni.

Ms. Moore will facilitate a workshop for those exploring grad-school or planning to attend the fair, on Tuesday, Oct. 23, from noon to 1 p.m. in SUB 307. For details and to register, visit www.dal.ca/csc/calendar.