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from the counselor and guidance on answering different types of questions. Students should take
advantage of this resource no matter what industry they are entering!
Graduate School Options
Students 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 .ACADEMICS — GRADUATE DEGREES
The third year is the time for your student to decide whether a graduate degree is required to reach
their professional goals. Academic advisers can help your student map out career goals and how to
reach them. In some fields, a graduate degree is the standard expectation of hiring managers. If your
student’s field is one of them, encourage them to consider one of Clemson’s accelerated graduate
degree programs like a combined bachelor’s/master’s degree, or direct-entry Ph.D. (no master’s
required). You might want to share “Graduate School Q & A” with your student; you can find
it at
clemson.edu/graduate .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 the decision to “try out” alcohol or
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.