What is grad school like?

[jjrousseau]

I'm just wondering about the general atmosphere, workload (compared to undergrad), whether its worth it to take a teaching assistantship (and how that's like). I'm getting my MA in Political Science next year, so I was hoping that some current/past grad students could tell me what grad life is like.

[TodayHello]

My experience with grad school ....... my peers were very sharp and brought their A-game to classes, lots of great discussions ..... the wandering'ness of undergrad was long gone, no one was there to hold your hand, you were expected to be very well read in the subject matter and be able to structure and present a sound/valid arguments ...... being able to get your points across in a clear and concise manner.

Mot successful students in undergrad learn the system by the 2nd year and game it from there on in, regardless of how well the know the material or not ....... grad studies, you actually need to know your stuff.

[cayros]

I'm just wondering about the general atmosphere, workload (compared to undergrad), whether its worth it to take a teaching assistantship (and how that's like). I'm getting my MA in Political Science next year, so I was hoping that some current/past grad students could tell me what grad life is like.

Atmosphere can vary a lot so it's hard to comment on that. Generally speaking, there are fewer classes, but they require more depth for whatever needs to be done. Assistanships provide funding which reduces or even eliminates the "how am I going to pay for it" aspect so I say go for it. Some aspects of assitanships are tedious, and you really get to see the range of students that is out there and the work they do. Some are very good, some are... not so much. Overall, it's a good experience, I think. If one has an advisor, that person makes a lot of difference. Be sure to choose wisely if you haven't already commited.