• Get a variety of observation experiences in several settings
  
  
• Learn as much as possible about the work while you observe a professional in your field of choice
  
  
• Learn what is happening in your chosen profession and in the health care field in general (check out the web sites for professional organizations in your major)
  
  
• Read the catalog to discover what you will studying in the professional component of your program
  
  
• Make sure you have thought through the commitment of time and money you will be making to enter the professional component of your program
  
  
• Know yourself and what you will enjoy doing for many years to come

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that is required for entry into graduate programs. There are 3 sections: verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing.

The verbal score ranges from 200 to 800 in 10-point increments as does the quantitative score. The analytical writing score is reported from 0 to 6 in half-point increments. The analytical writing section consists of two tasks: a 45-minute “Present Your Perspective on an Issue” task and a 30-minute “Analyze an Argument” task. Students may choose to word process or handwrite their responses. However, score reporting may take up to six weeks if you choose to handwrite the response.

The GRE is given by computer on a regular basis at the Sylvan Learning Center, 820 South University Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609, 251-344-6284. Also, you may call 800-GRE-CALL or log on to the GRE web site for more information.

A number of books about preparing for the GRE may be found at any bookstore; also software is available. The cost of the test is approximately $115. The highest set of scores will be used if the test is repeated.

Check out the Occupational Outlook Handbook web site, which is based on information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, for employment projections for the next few years. You might also check the web site of the professional organization in your area of interest.