Mapping out your academic goals before you even step foot into the admissions office is important. Things you should consider include:

• What degree is most applicable to the field you want to enter?
• Do you have the talents, skills, and passionate desire to pursue your chosen career?
• Have you done some research, and spoken to some people in your field, so that you have a thorough knowledge of what's expected?
• Do you have the finances or scholarships to make it through the minimum years of schooling to reach your goal?
• If things do not go as you expect, what else will you do?