Most graduate programs are pretty specialized, so it’s important to focus your attention on just a few schools, rather than applying to everything under the sun. Not to mention that the costs can add up -- just think back to when you were applying for undergraduate programs.

When choosing a graduate program, you should:

1. Create a targeted list of schools you wish to apply to, varying between reach and safety schools.
2. Research the quality of the program faculty and the number of whom do research in your area of interest.
3. Conduct an information interview with a faculty member and/or student of that program about why they chose that program, would they choose it again, and why.
4. Make sure the campus meets your program’s needs. Is their focus on their undergraduate or graduate population? Is that what you are looking for? Do they have enough labs, libraries, assistantships, fellowships?

The Toppel Internship Program (TIP) provides a FREE way for you to gain academic credit for your internship experience. The 1-credit notation counts toward overall credits; however, it does not count toward graduation credits or GPA points. You can participate in TIP whether your internship is paid or unpaid. If it is unpaid, we strongly recommend you participate so that you walk away from the experience with tangible compensation in the form of academic credit. International students in need of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization must participate in TIP because proof of enrollment in at least one internship credit is required by law.

To be eligible for CPT, you must:

• Be in lawful F-1 status at the time you submit your application and maintain valid F-1 status throughout the internship period
• Have been enrolled in valid, lawful status as a full-time student for at least one full academic year

Kelshay Toomer Assistant Director Internships

Hello, my name is Kelshay Toomer, and I am a short person with tall standards. I am a young professional who exudes excellence and class in everything that I do; in other words, I’m a #BossedUp young lady. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, I was brought up in a single-parent household, where I realized the importance of family. I am energized by restoring something to its true glory, because giving up is not an option. As a co-founder of a self-love blog Beneath the Sol, I aim to educate the youth within my community by initiating community service projects, such as Adopt-A-Road Clean-Ups. I am extremely passionate about my rich roots and talking about the uncomfortable to become comfortable. Over time, I have learned to not take life too seriously and to live my best life at all times.