Having nearly completed her bachelor's degree in women's studies and psychology from Western University, Marissa Daniels was determined to stay in academia after her spring convocation. She planned on pursuing a master's program, but was pulled in too many directions. I'd been accepted by several schools in Canada, as well as in England, and I didn't know which one to choose.

When it comes to decision time, sorting through your options can get pretty stressful. Eeny, meeny, miny, moe could work, but you wouldn't be doing yourself any justice. 

For starters 

One aspect that should play a role in your decision is education diversity, explains Linda Cicuta, a career advisor at McGill University. It's recommended to change schools so you can diversify your learning experience. Our professors tell undergrads to go to another school to get their next degree(s) because each student has different goals, and there are programs that could match them better at other institutions, says Cicuta.

Leaving familiar soils is exactly what Daniels decided to do. She opted for a master's of women's studies  at York University, embracing the new surroundings and change of pace. 

I'm really happy to be in the new environment. I think for people in women's studies, or the arts in general, it's really important to gain new perspective, and going to York has done that.

Program and professor compatibility

Since master's programs have a narrowed focus, you should determine whether a program's particular direction is compatible with your area of interest. Karen Carrel Rice, team facilitator and career counsellor at the University of Toronto says it's important to analyze before you come to a conclusion.

I tell students to create some sort of criteria as to what they are looking for from their graduate program, she says. They need to decide if the particular program is speaking to what their looking for, and make sure they're finding the best fit. 

In addition to researching programs, you have to research professors. In most cases, master's students will be working one-on-one with their thesis advisor, so identifying a professor whose area of expertise compliments yours is pivotal.  This doesn't just mean attending the interview, you need to do a little more investigating. 

You can't know if you're truly compatible with an advisor until you actually start working with him or her, Rice explains, so speak to grad students who already have to get a better sense of his or her style. This, she stresses, could not be more crucial; a poor student-advisor relationship could hinder your research, and your experience as a graduate student.  

Camp grounds

Campus environment should also be carefully considered during the decision making process. If you're tempted to stay up late partying instead of doing work, then you should veer away from those schools known for reckless social scenes. 

Class size is also key, since some people respond better to intimate settings and smaller numbers, while others prefer lecture halls.  I'm really happy with the smaller class sizes, says Daniels. They are discussion based, rather than lecture based, which gave me a better opportunity to learn from my peers, and to really be noticed by my professors.

When in doubt

If the decision isn't clear enough, seek the help of campus career advisors. Among their many talents, career councilors are the ultimate third party. If for no other reason, Rice says, students can see an advisor because they are an objective perspective, which is great when students are really feeling the opinions and pressures of their family, and people with vested interests.

Since going to York, Daniels has remained active in academic circles and has been able to further explore her focus. She has also remained in touch with her undergraduate faculty, as she values their opinions and guidance. Ultimately it was the right decision. I really enjoy the people and my professors, and that's the key for me in completing this degree.

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