Biophysical Society Bulletin | February 2026

Career Development

How Do I Prepare for Graduation As an Undergraduate Student?

Graduation often arrives faster than expected. Take it from me: one day you’re preparing another lab report, and the next you are being asked to decide what comes after. This transition can

just about what types of programs to which you should apply, but also about what type of lab culture would fit you best. A clear sense of why you want to pursue further training often can be more important than developing a slightly more optimized transcript. If possible, ask faculty members about their own paths and what they found most important. In my experience, an extremely common challenge that prospec tive graduate students face comes from how difficult it can be to have these discussions with an admissions committee in a way that feels natural. You won’t just be rehashing your transcript, so getting comfortable with these discussions before meeting with your potential future PI can make a world of difference. At the same time, keep your options open. Even students who feel confident about their next step benefit from exploring alternatives. Attend career panels, connect with alumni, or request informational interviews with people working in roles that interest you. These low-pressure conversations are a way to learn what you truly value before making a commit ment. Ask yourself how you would want your daily life to look. If you aren’t sure, then exploring further can be a great help. Finally, give yourself permission to not have everything fig ured out. Many successful scientists and professionals took paths that were anything but linear. Preparing for graduation is about building a foundation that will support you as you move forward. Wherever you land next, the habits you develop now will continue to guide you long after commencement day. — Molly Cule

bring excitement and uncertainty in equal parts, which is why it’s so import ant to start thinking it through before you start to feel the pressure. Preparing for graduation is less about having a perfectly defined plan and more about taking time to build confidence in your next steps. A good place to start is simply making sure you are academi cally on track. Check in with your advisor early to confirm that you will meet all degree requirements. These conversations are also an opportunity to talk more broadly about your goals. Faculty advisors have seen many students navigate this tran sition and can often help you think through options you may not have considered. As you prepare to leave the classroom, take stock of what you have learned beyond course content. Think about the skills you have developed throughout your undergraduate experience (e.g., in labs, group projects, research experiences, and presentations). Being able to describe how you function in these environments will serve you well wherever life takes you. Practicing how you talk about these experiences (out loud, not just on paper) can make a meaningful difference. For students considering graduate school, preparation often begins earlier than you might expect. Talk with mentors, not

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February 2026

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