Author: ROBSON E.

Source: Journal of Geography in Higher Education, Volume 27, Number 3, November 2003 , pp. 349-354(6)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

Abstract:

Introduction

As you finish your degree what do you do next? Deciding to continue with study or research in geography is a popular choice. A master's course or PhD programme can be the start of a lifelong academic career, or a stepping-stone to all sorts of professions that geography graduates are suited to. A recent Directions article (Kneale, 2002) is full of ideas and helpful tips for geographers seeking a career after graduation. Getting a place as a postgraduate student is not always easy but there is plenty of advice on how to do this available from your tutors, careers office and publications. For example, Boardman (2003) provides a very useful starting point for geography students thinking of applying for a master's course in the UK. The volume by Rogers and Viles (2003) also contains several chapters on opportunities overseas for studying at master's and PhD level in New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, the USA, Australia and Canada. Becoming a postgraduate student will almost always involve the hurdle of an interview, as will nearly every job you apply for. This piece is aimed to help you maximise your chances of success in that interview, or interviews. All interviews need serious and thoughtful prior research and preparation.

What the Interviewers are Looking For

It helps if you have an idea of what the interviewers are looking for--then you can work out what your strengths are in relation to their criteria. Nearly all job specifications and training opportunities in the business world come with brochures, competence expectations and organisational descriptions. These help you to target your preparation. You have no excuse for not knowing what is wanted. University expectations of graduate students may not be so explicit, but you can expect that they also assume you will be committed, enthusiastic and very clear about why you are making this choice of career. Some of the major expectations of graduate students are described below.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0309826032000145106

Affiliations: 1: Keele University, UK

Publication date: 2003-11-01

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