Receiving a letter of rejection in response to your application to graduate school is disappointing to say the least. Anger, sorrow, and confusion are common responses. Accept these feelings as they're normal. Once you have wallowed a little bit turn your attention to feeling better and taking action. Recognize that rejection does not necessarily mean that you are unfit for graduate study. There are many reasons why applicants are rejected that have nothing to do with their credentials. Then consider your applications, your fit to each program, and what may have gone wrong. Finally, learn from this experience and determine specific changes that you can make to improve your application.

How did you cope with rejection? Share your experience.

Commencement ceremonies were held at most colleges and universities within the last week or two. Graduates often report feeling a mix of relief, happiness, and also some sadness.  Why?

You've been looking forward to graduation since you first started college or graduate school. It's finally here! Why aren't you happier? Students spend a great deal of time and effort working towards earning a degree. Sometimes when a long-awaited goal is achieved, we feel a sense of emptiness -- sadness. Why sadness? What are the graduation blues?

Often students say something along the lines of: "I thought I'd feel different, but nothing has changed." It's a common feeling. I experienced it after defending my dissertation. What's the solution? Remind yourself of how much you've achieved. Look back on the path you've taken. Take pride in your accomplishment. Think about your next goal(s), whether it's to improve your social life, improve your physical fitness, or earn another degree. Did you experience the graduation blues? Share your response on this page and read what others have to say.

For those not in the know, an adjunct refers to an adjunct instructor - a part time college instructor. Adjuncts are paid by the class. Adjunct positions typically pay about $3,000 per class though some may receive as little as $1,500 and others $4,000. Most adjuncts are graduate students or graduates pursuing full time tenure track positions in academia. Adjuncts typically string together multiple jobs and often teach for two or more colleges.

Some have argued that  adjuncting ruins lives. Why? Low pay, little control over what class assignments and schedules, and low status. Adjuncts often are invisible in departments. No office space, no phone, no status. The stress of adjuncting gets in the way of completing dissertations and job hunting. Although intended to keep oneself afloat before obtaining permanent employment adjuncting can delay graduation and negatively affect one's career.  Is this overly dire?

Should you avoid adjunct teaching?  Not necessarily.  It's a personal decision based on your personal situation. But a broader perspective is always helpful.  Thoughts?

Also see: Teaching Tips
Don't Over-Prepare for Class

Summer is just a few steps away. If you're planning on going to graduate school, whether applying this fall or next, you should take advantage of summer time as an opportunity to get some research experience. Its not too late to speak with your professors and get some leads on research opportunities. These opportunities likely will be unpaid but help you get experience and make contacts.