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 am a proud second-generation Gryphon and University of Guelph alumna, having received an Honours Bachelor of Arts in International Development from the U of G in 2008, following in my father's footsteps (Agricultural Engineering '71 and MSc '86). Coming back to Guelph to pursue a doctorate has felt like coming home in all the best ways.
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.
Guelph offers great graduate programs for students that may or may not have research experience. What I have found is that faculty members are very willing to meet with students, and are available to talk about their research and to provide insight about what graduate school encompasses. In addition, getting to meet with current graduate students to talk about what their research is about is definitely an option here at the University of Guelph. I have found that many students are afraid to contact faculty members, but I found it to be very easy and helpful to reach out to the Faculty at Guelph. The University of Guelph definitely has the support system to help students get of glimpse of what graduate school has to offer.
“My advisor has allowed me to grow as an independent researcher, and ensures I stay on track. I have had a wonderful experience growing into the student I am now. ”
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.
While it's true that you should work hard to reach your goal, burnout is real. Allow yourself to take breaks when needed; take a nap, play video games, and laugh at some memes. Life will feel less annoying.
Finding your passion will take you to the right place at the end of the road. Just keep doing your best and appreciate all the opportunities provided along the way.
I highly recommend University of Guelph graduate studies for the prospective grad student who is looking to build their skills and improve their knowledge. This great learning experience will make students more employable in the labor market. The best thing in grad studies is the working opportunities offered to students while studying which improves their networking and can prepare them for the labor market.
Workshops offered through the library and OpenEd are so beneficial to help with your research goals and teaching tips/tricks. Definitely be sure to check these out!
