GRADUATE ADVISING
INFORMATION
Orientation and Initial Meeting
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Date: Typically at the beginning of the program.
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Purpose: Introduction to program requirements, advisor, and resources. Review of academic goals, timeline, and first-year expectation.
Comprehensive / Preliminary Examinations
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Date: End of first year (or beginning of second year).
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Purpose: Assess the foundational knowledge in field of study. This could be written, oral, or both.
Progress Review
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Date: Annually (or specified frequency by the advisor.
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Purpose: Review of progress towards degree completion, including courses, research progress, and future plans. Discuss areas of strengths and areas of improvement.
Course Selection and Registration
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Date: Before the start of the first semester
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Purpose: Confirm courses for the first term, review prerequisite, and set academic goals.
Thesis / Dissertation Proposal Approval
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Date: By end of the second year (or beginning of the third year).
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Purpose: Formal approval of thesis / dissertation topic, research questions, and methodology by the advisor and committee.
Dissertation / Thesis Defense Scheduling
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Date: At least one semester before expected graduation.
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Purpose: Confirm the defense date with the committee, ensuring all academic requirements are met for thesis / dissertation completion.
Final Thesis / Dissertation Submission Deadline
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Date: Typically 2-4 weeks before graduation.
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Purpose: Submit the final draft of thesis / dissertation to the committee for review. Ensure all revisions are made before submission to the Graduate Division.
Final Graduate School Review
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Date: 1-2 weeks before graduation.
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Purpose: Final review of all program requirements to ensure graduation. This may include review of grades, thesis / dissertation completion, overall academic standing, and cultural protocols for graduation ceremonies.
Graduation Application Deadline
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Date: Early in the final semester.
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Purpose: Submit application for graduation, ensuring all requirements are met and that your name appears on the graduation list.
Commencement Participation Registration
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Date: 1-2 months before graduation (follow UH Graduate Division deadlines).
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Purpose: Confirm participation in the commencement ceremony and finalize any related details (caps and gown, oil, kīhei, seating arrangements, informing kumu, family, and friends, etc.)
