Your Concentration. Each concentration in our department helps to narrow your focus within biology and the accompanying coursework should help you identify specific areas of interest.

Research. If you are interested in graduate school, you absolutely need research experience at the undergraduate level. Identify faculty in our department involved in research in which you share an interest.

Literature. Reading journal articles from the scientific literature is a helpful way to find what interests you. Use Google Scholar and our Library Resources to find topics that you might like to learn about further. Use the co-authors and institutional information to form contacts. 

Networks. While at WKU, take every opportunity to get to know your professors and teaching assistants. Ask them questions about their journey in biology and work to form relationships. If you share research interests, ask them about their programs, mentors, and experience to find good contacts.

Conferences. Use conferences to expand your network. Visit poster sessions as an informal way to read about different research projects and meet the students and faculty involved. Be prepared to introduce yourself and ask questions oriented around graduate opportunities.

Biological Societies. The societies that sponsor conferences often have active job boards that may include graduate postings specific to their sub-discipline in biology.

Job Boards. Some fields have well-known job boards that are often used to advertise graduate student openings.

Search the Web. Postings for openings in graduate school can be listed in lots of places across the web. Use key terms including your research area, Master's degree, graduate school, etc. for the best results. 

Applications. Graduate students must apply to the graduate school and to the program/lab in which they are interested. In most cases, the first step is finding a mentor or lab with an opening and funding. Then you can work with them to complete the application process.

Cover Letters. This is your chance to make a great impression and tell your story. But remember, you are applying for a science position, not a creative writing competition. Be direct while still allowing your audience to get to know you better. You should always include 1) why you are a good candidate and 2) why you are specifically interested in the lab or program with which you are applying. 

CVs. Keep your CV clean and well-organized. Include all relevant work experience, internships, volunteer roles, and research projects. Do not embellish or use overly-flowerily language. Use consistent formatting throughout.

Letters of Recommendation. Most programs request 3 letters. At least one letter (if not all) should be from a professor you have had in class or as an adviser or research mentor. Ideally each letter writer should contribute some unique knowledge about why you are good fit.

In your request for a letter, include your cover letter and CV in your letter request. Email your request, or ask in person with an email follow-up, early enough to allow ample time for your letter writers (at least a month ahead) and you should send reminders as needed. It may be appropriate to remind them of your relationship (e.g., I was in your general biology class in F24), and why you selected them as potential recommender (e.g., I was hoping you could describe my work ethic and contributions to our project last term).

The Interview. It is increasingly common for these to happen via Zoom or Skype. Be prepared and ensure all your tech is working properly if so. Interview experiences can vary widely, but regardless of the type of interview do the following: research your mentor, their lab, the program and school, investigate funding and wages, ask questions, take opportunities to talk with students from your prospective lab, be confident, polite, and engaging.