Advice for New Graduate Students

Starting in the CSL program should bring about a variety of emotions, everything from fear to excitement. Starting off strong will pay off in the long run. There are a number of good articles from About.com on tips for graduate students so click the link and start reading. Basic tips include:

• Getting supplies and books 
• Determining how you will organize your materials and take notes
• Putting important dates on your calendar
• Planning out your program of study
• Know your academic weak spots and plan to ask for help

In addition, there are some other things to keep in mind that are specifically being in a Counseling program. Graduate school is a time of intense personal and professional growth.  We are training you for the field which requires much more than just being able to manage the academic piece of the program. I like to call these the "Top 10" and faculty will make a point to revisit these in the courses they teach.


1. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone.
2. Open yourself up to multiple perspectives and worldviews.
2. Improve your communication skills; listening, writing and speaking.
4. Seek learning everywhere.
5. Network and get involved in the profession.
6. Don't expect perfection but do expect professionalism.
7. Be flexible when things don't go as planned.
8. Know your resources, how and when to use them.
9. Connect what you learn to other life experiences.
10.Engage in ongoing self-reflection.

Current and former CSL students, PLEASE feel free to leave your own advice for new CSL students here too!