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First experiences
- Clear and accurate information about the graduate program (including requirements, faculty, etc.)
- Prompt responses to questions about the program and the admissions process
- Smooth admissions process
- Effective recruiting visits
- Orientation to department, university, and community
- Early informative interactions with DGS and faculty
Program structure and academic environment
- Lively, productive, high-level faculty with active departmental programs of lectures, visitors, etc.
- Well-taught courses in an academically challenging core curriculum with relevant electives
- Clear expectations about mileposts in graduate career and timely completion of degree
- Supportive, involved research advisor
- Good dissertation guidance from mentor and committee
- Intellectually and socially supportive circle of other graduate students
- Active graduate student organization with participation in program governance
Professional development
- Opportunities and support to attend conferences and present papers
- Support for publishing articles and papers
- Well-structured and instructive TA experience, but not excessive
- Effective programs in general professional skills (writing, research ethics, PFF, etc.)
- Effective career counseling and placement help for both academic and nonacademic jobs
General support and environment (not program-specific)
- Adequate financial support
- Affordable, safe housing
- Affordable health care
- Affordable and accessible child care if needed
- Helpful Graduate School and other university services
- Attractive community for extracurricular activities
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