In the midst of COVID-19, MTSU’s College of Graduate Studies had an almost 28% growth in enrollment this fall and wants to continue that momentum into the future.

To support both prospective and new students, the staff is offering two new opportunities to show the public what grad studies has to offer.

Click on the image to register.

The first is MTSU’s Virtual Graduate Studies Program Fair this Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Available through the Handshake app to students, alumni and students enrolled at schools using Handshake, program directors and advisers will answer questions about courses, career opportunities, admission criteria, funding opportunities and more.

Register here: https://lnkd.in/e7VKyq5.

The second is a virtual breakout session for prospective graduate students at the True Blue Preview from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26.

Register here: www.mtsu.edu/schedule-a-visit/special-events.php.

Dr. Dawn McCormack

Graduate Studies Associate Dean Dawn McCormack will facilitate the session for prospective graduate students, and those considering graduate education are encouraged to register.

“I think it’s easy to get daunted by the idea of graduate school,” said master’s student Jeanette Stevens, “but I would remind students that going to college felt insurmountable at first, too. There is no clock ticking, so take your time and do what you can manage. It’s never too late!”

Ashlee Hover, the program director for the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction non-licensure degree, addressed teachers who may be hesitant to pursue a graduate degree.

Dr. Saeed Foroudastan

“Jump in and try it out,” she said. “Teachers should be lifelong learners. Continuing and advancing your education will not only benefit you but will also help your students, school, school district and community in the long run. It’s a win-win!”

Saeed Foroudastan, associate dean of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, noted that nontraditional students at the graduate level tend to be “excellent students.”

“All we need to do is be patient with them at the beginning and realize that they haven’t been in college for a while,” he explained.

— Stephanie Barrette (Stephanie.Barrette@mtsu.edu)