Senior Year - Prepare
Continue to use Degree Works to stay on track for graduation
Degree Works – Western’s academic planning and degree evaluation tool – is used to evaluate coursework fulfilling major, minor, and degree requirements. You can access Degree Works on MyWestern, under “Academic Planning Tools”. More information and step-by-step instructions are available on the Registrar’s Office website. Degree Works is not intended to replace face-to-face advising sessions. Continue to see an advisor to discuss your progress toward graduation.
Do a research project with a professor or complete a second related internship
Many professors on campus are working on research projects in exciting fields! Talk to professors/departments within your areas of interest to find out what opportunities are available. Or develop and complete your own research project with a faculty mentor!
Develop and create a portfolio to showcase your experience and qualifications
A portfolio is a great way to organize your accomplishments and show evidence of your skills to illustrate your previous experience for the interviewer. They are a useful asset during a job interview, both as a way for you to reflect on your experience and collect and neatly organize papers, projects and documents that reflect your skills, accomplishments, and understanding of your major; as well as items that show your ability to do the job you are seeking. Examples could be a research report, a write-up about a class project, or an award.
Take advantage of Career Services Center programs and services to design an effective job-search strategy
Career Services Center, Old Main 280 offers various job-search related workshops to help you with resume writing, interview techniques, networking, and finding the right job. Sign up for one today!
Research and apply to graduate/professional schools early
This can be an exciting but challenging task. Tackle it early and work on it in pieces over time. The Career Services Center provides support assistance with searching, planning, and applying for graduate school.
Request references from professors, supervisors, and former employers
Most likely you will need references for graduate school or job applications after you graduate. Always ask permission to list someone as a reference. If requesting a letter of reference, always allow at least 3 weeks for the writer to complete the letter.
Provide those writing letters of reference a description of the graduate program or job you are applying for. Remind professors of grades and paper topics you completed in their courses. Remind supervisors of responsibilities you held, and special projects or extra training you completed. Be prepared to supply topics you would like them to address in your reference letter, if asked.
Complete the Degree Application Process
Students need to apply for graduation two (2) quarters prior to their intended graduation quarter. Details about the process and the application are available at the Registrar's Office, Old Main 230.