"My CU-GARS experience showed me that Clemson was my next home away from home. I felt like I belonged and could thrive in the program. The entire weekend was intentionally designed for me to explore what it would look like to be a student in the program. I was actively engaged and supported throughout the entire process and though I was a prospective student, the current students treated me like I was another one of their classmates. Throughout the entire weekend, I was able to network with prospective students who were in the same boat as me; many of us applied to the same schools, but each of us shared the experience of going through the process together and that networking piece was very impactful. 

My PAW Pal provided guidance for me to get a better understanding of what it meant to be a student at Clemson while giving me the chance to explore campus on my own to see if Clemson was the best fit for me. One memory that made my CU-GARS experience memorable had to be when we were able to go up to the President's Suite in the Stadium where we heard from folks involved with the CU-GARS process and the faculty of the program. The faculty were so down to earth with us and that was so valuable in my experience in CU-GARS. Yes, the faculty were excited that we were considering Clemson's program, but they were even more excited that we wanted to enter the field of student affairs. That left me with a great feeling as we concluded the weekend. 

My piece of advice to prospective students would be to be engaged with folks you meet throughout this process but also give yourself the time and space to reflect on where your feet are. The graduate school search is daunting, and at points, it feels very overwhelming, and that is okay. The CU-GARS process gives you the chance to meet with students who were in your shoes a year or two years ago and that is something you want to take advantage of. We want to support you so that you can make the decision that feels right!"

Skylar Walder

Graduate Community Director for Lightsey Bridge

Clemson Home

"CU-GARS was 100% what sold me on this program and university. I remember the week before GARS being so busy with virtual interviews for other graduate schools, as well as interviews for a couple of fellowship jobs at my undergraduate university and feeling so overwhelmed. Clemson was the only interview weekend where I would be able to be in person and I was so nervous, especially as an out-of-state student. Luckily, I had a great Paw-Pal who put all my worries at ease. Being able to connect with a current student before I even stepped foot on campus was so helpful because it allowed me to be able to walk into a room full of people I didn’t know and have at least one premade connection. They were a great resource and helped me to really feel comfortable and confident before going into my interviews. 

One of my favorite parts of GARS was forming relationships with other students who would end up being a part of my cohort once we all arrived on campus. I highly recommend going to the socials and getting to know the other people being interviewed, as you never know who may become a part of your cohort, or even just a part of your network! Building connections early on helps make the process feel smoother as you can relate to other people who are also going through the same process as you. I also recommend talking to more of the current students, too! They will give you honest answers about what they enjoy about the program and can help you with any questions or concerns you may have.

While the whole weekend may feel overwhelming, I promise you it is worth it. The faculty and current students make it known that they are here for you throughout your graduate school journey. They want you to succeed just as much as you do, and they are so open about how much they love and care for this program. When you arrive for CU GARS, take it all in. Take the time to get to know everyone, ask any questions you may have, and explore the campus. I promise you that we want you here, and that you would be a great fit here. Know that we are all in your corner cheering you on!”

Ashley Sanfacon

Graduate Assistant of Employer Relations and Events 

Center for Career and Professional Development