I chose to complete my grad studies at Guelph because of the faculty in the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development and the connections that the University has to several provincial ministries and government organizations.
I chose to study at the University of Guelph because I liked the friendly, community-based attitude here. After completing my undergraduate degree at Guelph I knew this is where I wanted to complete my master's.
Graduate studies at the University of Guelph is unique because of the vibrant and friendly community environment, the access to outstanding resources and training, and the many opportunities on campus to develop important career and life skills.
I decided to complete my graduate studies at the University of Guelph for a multitude of reasons - the amazing faculty being a significant one. Not only do I feel supported by my professors, but they motivate me to be a better researcher. The skills I've received from the Guelph faculty are invaluable, and I know that they have prepared me for whatever opportunities follow my degree.
Identify your passion and reason(s) for wanting to become a graduate student. Write them down, type it up, post it large and visibly on your desk or wherever you do your work so that it remains a constant reminder of why you are doing what you are doing and will motivate you through the hard times that every graduate student has and does go through, so that you can always see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Be prepared. Look around first and then come here. Do your homework when you're looking at programs and remember that you stand a real chance of working with OMAFRA and OMAFRA connected researchers here. They really are the best.
I was always curious about the prospect of grad school but was concerned about having to go further into student loan debt. As an undergraduate student, I had no idea that graduate programs offer stipends to help cover the cost of living and tuition. My entire MSc program was paid for through the graduate stipend, teaching assistant positions, and a few scholarships. Apply to every scholarship you are eligible for/you can find! Even if you think you have a small chance of actually winning the process of preparing all the required documents only speeds up your next application!
Being a graduate student was a great experience! UofG supports its students in making the program accessible to people of all capacities. I found myself engaging with people from different countries, stages of life, and experience. I really loved the different perspectives that was brought to my classes each week since the people in my program came from all walks of life.
