Graduate School: Overcoming Barriers to Success Essay Example

style="text-align: justify">Another obstacle that threatens success is health and emotional issues present prior to attending school. Fogg (2009) reveals that graduate school has a reputation for triggering and amplifying depression and mental illness, especially in those already afflicted by mental health issues. Depression may prevent the individual from fully engaging in discussions, completing assignments or even reaching one’s full potential. Strategies to overcome these obstacles include complying with prescribed mental health medications, seeking support from the university’s free resource center, and focusing on self-care activities.

Improving Communication Skills Within the graduate school setting, strong communication skills are vital when interacting with classmates and faculty. Perfecting communication skills in the classroom setting prepares students to communicate effectively with fellow colleagues and professionals (Fisher & Zigmond, 1996). An essential strategy to improve one’s communication skills lies in the ability to be an excellent listener. Klein (2009) asserts that effective listening involves more concentration and focus than any other form of communication.

Engaging in active listening shows that the individual is truly interested in what the other party has to say. This in itself results in a mutual respect that fosters healthy communication. Another approach to improving communication is to remove barriers that hinder the ability to convey messages effectively. If the sender delivers a written message that contains poor grammar, misspellings, incorrect abbreviations, is too lengthy or disorganized, the receiver may misinterpret or misunderstand the message (Bambacas & Patrickson, 2008).

Inappropriate body language or facial expressions are also obstacles to effective communication (Clemmer, 2011). Eliminating these barriers will improve communication within the classroom. Showing respect to fellow classmates and faculty is an excellent way

to foster healthy communication. Respecting various viewpoints, methods of interactions, and emotions as well as remaining nonjudgmental will assist in building positive relationships among fellow students and faculty. Displaying disrespect toward others causes them to disagree or even discount what is said to them, resulting in poor communication (Ustun, 2006).

Communication Strengths and Weaknesses Most individuals possess both strengths and weaknesses with regard to communication. One may exhibit a lack of confidence or even feel anxious when interacting with others. The tendency of being too passive may also prevent the individual from getting the full message across. Another weakness lies in the individual overanalyzing various topics to the point of misunderstanding the other party’s viewpoints. On the other hand, one may also be proficient in active listening, which is a definite strength with regards to communication.

Being able to communicate honestly, openly, and respectfully is also an asset that is appreciated by the other party. Finally, educating oneself on the topic of discussion is a strength that will benefit all parties involved. Conclusion Graduate study comes with many challenges and involves significant preparation and commitment. Being aware of one’s strengths and weaknesses, improving communication skills, and discovering strategies to meet established goals are essential keys to academic and professional success.