Grad Expo scheduled Nov. 12

The Division of Graduate Studies will host Grad Expo, an event designed to help would-be graduate students investigate programs and streamline the application and admissions process, on Nov. 12.

"This event provides a one-stop opportunity for students interested in entering a graduate program," said Dianne Dickerson, associate dean of graduate studies.   "It also gives them a chance to see which program is really going to match their career goals."

At a time when campuses of the California State University are being cautious about   enrolling too many students because of budget cutbacks, Dickerson defends the recruitment event, saying that over 80 percent of Fresno State's graduate students come from its undergraduate population.

"We can't stop recruiting," she said.   "We need to take steps to ensure we attract a talented and diverse graduate student body."

"This is a unique opportunity," said coordinator Carol Bradshaw. "Since so many of our students work full- or part-time, this is our chance to accommodate their schedules."

All juniors and seniors have been invited.   In addition, Grad Expo is one way the university extends its presence into the community it serves; over 600 schools and businesses in the San Joaquin Valley have received information on the event, so Bradshaw expects a large number of attendees looking to advance their careers and achieve personal education goals.

Potential students will have the afternoon to meet with graduate faculty and current graduate students from the university's 40 master's degree programs, the joint doctorate program, certificates of advanced study and the credential programs.

Campus offices integral to the graduate admissions process will also have representatives on hand. Staff from the offices of admissions, testing, financial aid, career services, and the alumni association also will be in attendance.

Students can register for the GRE, GMAT and MAT, and apply on-site to graduate school.   Graduate admissions staff will be available to assist students in their application process and determine their admissibility to the university.   Laptops will be available on-site so students can apply through CSU Mentor, the system-wide CSU application center.

Grad Expo 2003 will be held from 2:30 to 6 p.m. in the Satellite Student Union.   Pre-registration for the event is not necessary.   Students are encouraged to contact the Division of Graduate Studies at 8-2448 or visit the division's Web site ( www.csufresno.edu/gradstudies ) if they are interested in applying at the Expo or wish to pre-schedule an appointment with faculty.