College and beyond: How do I get there from here

摘要

The panels of the 1992 Science Careers in Search of Women Conference consisted of a diverse group of women: undergraduate and graduate students, engineers, a director of college admissions, a professor of microbiology, and leaders of small and large companies. Each panelist shared valuable information and answered questions that many high school students have concerning college and the years beyond. One issue that was focused on was preparation for college. Several speakers emphasized the importance of students themselves taking the initiative to collect information on colleges and career programs. The college admissions officer advised that specific questions about admissions requirements be directed to a senior person in the office who actually makes decisions on admissions. She stressed the importance of establishing an interaction that could provide recognition for the student when the admissions officer is reviewing applications from a large pool of candidates. She also emphasized the importance of studying for standardized tests. Speakers discussed the advantages of enrolling in higher-level math and science classes and taking Advanced Placement courses when they are available. Once a student has enrolled in a college or university, it is time to focus on choosing a major and identifying career interests and options. Graduate school was identified as much less classroom-oriented than undergraduate studies. A student conducts research with guidance from an advisor and attends lectures and seminars, which often times present information related to the research project she is working on. Tuition is usually paid for by universities, especially in the science and engineering fields, often in return for a teaching or research assistant position.