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Demystifying Graduate School


Navigating Graduate School as an International Student and Parent: Dr. Andrea’s Journey into Applied Policy Research
Dr. Andrea is an economist and applied researcher who supports learners navigating graduate school pathways, from PhD admissions consulting to quantitative research mentorship and career advising. In this Meet the Mentors interview, she shares how her international graduate student experience and community‑centered policy work shape her approach to mentoring.

Another Degree
May 156 min read
![Abstract hopscotch board showing graduate degrees from college to PhD [AI-generated image]. Google Gemini.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7acab8_7e6761eb40764e4b9d0941fcb6bb002c~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_333,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_35,blur_30,enc_avif,quality_auto/7acab8_7e6761eb40764e4b9d0941fcb6bb002c~mv2.webp)
![Abstract hopscotch board showing graduate degrees from college to PhD [AI-generated image]. Google Gemini.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7acab8_7e6761eb40764e4b9d0941fcb6bb002c~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_95,enc_avif,quality_auto/7acab8_7e6761eb40764e4b9d0941fcb6bb002c~mv2.webp)
Graduate School Basics: Colleges vs. Universities, Academic vs. Professional Degrees, and How to Evaluate Programs
This guide outlines key distinctions in U.S. graduate education, including academic degrees like the PhD and professional tracks such as the MBA, JD, and MD. It offers practical advice on evaluating programs, reaching out to faculty, understanding institutional differences, and considering the evolving future of graduate school education. Ideal for students navigating advanced study for the first time.

Kelly Kistner, PhD
Nov 18, 202510 min read
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