

Graduate School Options
Your student might be considering professional or graduate schools.
The CCPD suggests students ask a few reflective questions:
• What are the major reasons to attend graduate school?
• Do they have a clear idea of the program or specialized area to pursue?
• Can they start a career within their field with only a bachelor’s degree?
• Do they want to spend more time in school?
These questions are valid because committing time and money to another
degree is a big decision. The CCPD is available through career counseling
appointments for discussing and researching graduate or professional school
options. The CCPD is also available to assist with the writing of curriculum
vitae and personal statements for graduate and professional school
admissions. Visit the CCPD’s website for more information:
clemson.edu/career.How You Can Support
• Encourage your student to make an appointment with a career
counselor at the CCPD. They can assist with advice, résumé critiquing,
cover letter editing and job search tools.
• Encourage your student to discuss career opportunities and plans
with faculty and advisers as well as any professionals in the field.
Networking is the key to success.
• Encourage a professional online identity! If you have a LinkedIn profile,
network with your student by role modeling a professional online
identity. Hopefully, your student will recognize the value of networking
in this digital environment.
SUPPORT A (SAFE) BIRTHDAY AT AGE 21
In the United States, turning 21 is often a milestone for young adults and
can be marked with numerous celebrations, which often involve alcohol.
Choosing not to drink alcohol under age 21 because it is illegal is a major
reason why some students abstain. Underage students may fear the
possibility of getting in trouble and/or hold moral beliefs the law should
be upheld. After a student reaches the age of 21, however, some may
contemplate a decision: either to “try out” alcohol or to continue their
decision to abstain. Students who have been non-drinkers in the past
may decide to experiment with alcohol.
Students who chose to consume alcohol illegally before age 21 can feel a
sense of “now what?” New elements are introduced with the option to drink
at bars and purchase alcohol, such as driving under the influence, easy
access to alcohol if it was so desired and the financial cost of buying alcohol.
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