Which term completes the statement: 'According to Landrum and Davis, the third component of applying to graduate school is ______'

• A. Patience
• B. Perseverance
• C. Preparation
• D. Practice

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is how to navigate the emotional and logistical rhythm of applying to graduate school. According to Landrum and Davis, patience is the third component, emphasizing the need to endure the long, often slow process of submissions, waiting for decisions, and managing delays without losing motivation or focus. Applications unfold over months with different deadlines, letters of recommendation, and program reviews, so staying steady and patient helps you keep materials complete, timelines held, and energy directed toward long-term goals rather than getting discouraged by slow responses or setbacks.

Patience makes sense here because, even with thorough preparation and ongoing effort, the pace of graduate admissions is largely out of the applicant’s control. Preparation and practice are still important, but they address getting ready and refining materials or interview skills, not the core experience of waiting and sustaining effort through the process. Perseverance involves continuing effort despite obstacles, which is related but is not the specific label Landrum and Davis give to the third component.