This story is sponsored by BYU Graduate Studies. Learn more about BYU Graduate Studies.

Valentine's Day has come and gone, and you're ready to ditch what's left of the chocolates you bought yourself and get back into the dating game. But where do you start? If only the person you admire could know how great you really are.

Luckily for you, BYU Graduate Studies knows a thing or two about bettering your chances as a datable candidate. With 85 programs, BYU Graduate Studies has a plethora of ways to help you show your date you are diligent, motivated and committed as an individual (and, possibly, as a future spouse).

Take a look at this short list of ways to put yourself out there and break the ice while advertising your own radiant wit and interests — just choose your major (or your potential sweetheart's) and get started.

Exercise Science

If you or your crush are among those who memorize countless anatomical terms and stretches to prevent injury, try starting a conversation about a common interest. Perhaps going to the gym to work out could provide the opportunity:

You: You know they say that a balanced exercise routine consists of strength training, cardio, and flexibility.

Potential date: Yeah, so...?

You: Well, it seems that you've been focused on just one of the three these past few weeks.

Potential date: What do you mean?

You: I mean that you've been spending all your time on strength training by lifting my heart every time I see you.

You can then offer to help them up their cardio game by planning to go running together or setting a date to play ultimate Frisbee later that week.

Accountancy

So you’re good with spreadsheets, budgeting and numbers, but engaging in small talk may not be your forte. Instead, use what you're good at to your advantage—broach the subject by asking for help with a financial decision.

You: I need your advice about something. I’ve been crunching some numbers in my mind recently, and although this investment might have risks, I think it will benefit both parties in the long run. Can you help me out?

Potential date: Uh… I’ll do my best.

You: Well, you see, I was thinking about it, and it seems like it’d be financially beneficial for you to let me take you out to dinner.

Potential date: [unknown response, likely flattered by your smooth line]

With some luck, you'll hopefully be well on your way to a romantic table for two, where you won't have any trouble calculating the tip.

Creative Writing

History shows that those who can write well often excel in the world of attraction. Shakespeare's sonnets might seem a little dry now, but you can create a modern spin on classic romantic writings.

Consider writing your cute co-ed a witty poem that you deliver in person while quoting Shakespeare. If you aren't a fan of Old Billy, try some misdirection followed by compliments:

You: I'm actually working on a novel right now. It's going to be epic.

Potential date: Oh, really? What's it about?

You: Well, it's about a young writer who yearns for excitement and wonder.

Potential date: Is that all?

You: But then the writer meets someone who changes everything. Their name is [insert potential date's name here], and they are strong, intelligent, funny and incredibly good-looking.

Potential date: So...it's a story about me?

You: Why don't you go out with me Friday night, and we'll find out?

The activity could then take the form of acting out a romantic play, or even writing silly "roses are red, violets are blue" poems and having a judge pick the best one. Whatever you do, find ways to use your creative talents to impress your date.

Music

You spend countless hours alone in a practice room, and it’s time to take a break. Try collaborating with another musician you're interested in to mix things up. As you work together to create music, take advantage of your combined musical knowledge with some relevant turn of phrase.

You: Would you play a C chord and then a G chord right after that?

Potential date: Sure. [plays the chord progression]

You: Did you just move from chord I to chord V? Because I think you’re perfect.

Potential date: Thanks, haha.

You: No seriously, I think you're great. Want to go out this weekend?

If your crush responds positively, plan a date where you go on a scavenger hunt through the HFAC, or take them to one of the many shows that play there.

Spanish

If you’re tired of conjugating verbs and worrying about tenses, don’t lose heart. Speaking another language makes you exotic and different, and it gives you plenty of ways to impress.

You: Did you know that Spanish is the most widely spoken Romance language in the world?

Potential date: Oh really?

You: Yes. That means that speaking it makes things more romantic.

Potential date: I suppose...

You: If you want, I could teach you some phrases and we'll make Paella.

Potential date: Wow, sounds great!

Play romantic Latin music while you cook together, and plan to go salsa dancing afterward to complete the experience.

Out of 85 graduate degrees, these five examples only scratch the surface of the endless, creative (and sometimes cheesy) ways you can ask someone out, whether in or out of your major.

In the end, the best way to attract dates is by bettering yourself, and graduate school is a great place to start. Visit BYU Graduate Studies to learn more about which program will help you succeed.

This story is sponsored by BYU Graduate Studies. Learn more about BYU Graduate Studies.

Graduate school is a big step. Being unprepared can affect your chances of getting into the school of your choice. Keep these hindrances in mind as you begin your application process.

1. Applying without a plan

Applying to graduate school takes more than just a single hour session sitting at the computer. In fact, US News recommends that prospective graduate students take at least one year to research and prepare before actually submitting applications. Some preparations should come before that, such as an ability to read in a foreign language and a solid undergraduate GPA.

That year of preparation includes making a list of schools, planning campus visits, talking to current students and alumni (try reaching out on social media), testing and so on.

Remember that each graduate program has an admissions committee that will review applications using their own established criteria. You would be wise to communicate with the intended program of admission to try to determine for yourself what the admissions committee is looking for in an ideal applicant.

Make sure to spend the early days of your preparation drawing out a schedule for yourself.

2. Taking the GRE, GMAT, LSAT OR MCAT only once

Uh oh, your driver's license expired yesterday and you can't get in to take the test. Maybe your alarm didn't go off so now you're late and flustered. When you open up your score a month before your application is due and the score isn't what you'd hoped for, what are your options now?

Planning to test early on in your process can give you time to prepare for a possible retake (or two). If you didn't take a prep course the first time around, enroll in one for the second time. Before you retake it, make sure to weigh the pros and cons. Consider following this flow chart from Magoosh to see your possibilities.

3. Not giving yourself enough time to complete the actual application

On the other hand, spending too much time on bettering your score can also be detrimental. There comes a time when you have to decide between taking the GRE prep class a third time or meeting with professors and employers for recommendation letters, gathering transcripts and writing samples, and so on.

The Graduate Studies Department of Brigham Young University suggests that applicants visit with current students in their program of interest and with graduate coordinators so they understand what the department is looking for and how they can best showcase that in their application materials.

For example, for a research-based program, aligning yourself with a faculty member who is doing research that interests you is always beneficial as they can advocate for your admission. In addition, applicants should submit their materials as soon as possible to allow for full consideration.

4. Having a mediocre statement of purpose

The age-old saying "show, don't tell" also applies in your statement of purpose for graduate school. Not only that, rather than have your statement be a narrative of how much you love your field, focus on projects where you've excelled and proven your ability to commit and work toward a successful outcome.

Graduate school requires dedication beyond what you had in your undergraduate degree. Your statement of purpose should show the admissions committee you have what it takesself-motivation, determination, potential, etc.to be a student of their graduate program.

Other things to consider:

Here's a quick list of the do's and don'ts of the admissions process.

• Generally, don't have your parents submit your application for you

• Don't be rude or demeaning in your communication with the admissions staff regarding your application

• Don't procrastinate submitting your application

• Don't just assume that your recommenders will write a favorable letter

• Don't give up if you are not recommended for admission

• Be proactive in the process and know what your responsibilities are

• Communicate with the graduate program that you intend to apply to and make yourself known to key people by asking questions

• Be positive

Graduate school is an excellent way to open more doors in your professional life and to grow as an individual. If you're beginning to think about graduate school, take a look at the programs offered by BYU Graduate Studies.

This story is sponsored by BYU Graduate Studies. Learn more about BYU Graduate Studies.

You may have noticed an influx in facial hair recently. In case you didn't know, November is also known as "No Shave November" and "Movember." These nicknames and efforts help raise awareness for men's health throughout the month.

As you can imagine with BYU ranking as the number one most sober university for 18 straight years by the Princeton Review, the folks who attend the university are in full support of men's health.

This month, many graduate students at BYU decided to showcase their facial hair in support of the cause, while still maintaining honor code standards.

Here are 13 bios of those brave enough to bear the 'stache in November.

Student: Matthew Nielson

Current graduate degree: Human Development, School of Family Life

Hometown: Nephi, Utah

What led you to graduate school? I became interested in this field to become a therapist, but after a few summers doing therapy with troubled teens, I decided to stay in an academic context.

Why did you choose BYU? The faculty in the Human Development program are wonderfully involved and supremely productive; it provided an excellent place for me to jump-start my academic career while learning more about the field and potential PhD programs. And, of course, such a benefit to be able to discuss human development in the greater context of spiritual development and a religious perspective.

Something interesting about you: I'm really into grandma/grandpa lifestyle choices right now. My kitchen houses a flock of ceramic geese and a tweed jacket with elbow patches is the crown of my wardrobe.

Matthew Neilson | Turns out that city boys in New York pay a ton of money to graft hair from their heads onto their faces to keep up with those whom nature endowed with true greatness.

Student: Rohan Sachidanand

Current graduate degree: MBA

Hometown: Bangalore, Karnataka, India

What led you to graduate school? I wanted to hone my business skills and get a global education before I return to my home country to make a positive difference in people's lives in India.

Why did you choose BYU? Rankings, value for money, placements, and a flexible MBA program.

What are you planning to do with your degree? I am planning to work in the US for a couple of years before I go back to my country, India, and start a venture with my brother that would directly impact the lives of people from my country.

Something interesting about you: I did an "around the country in 20 days trip" in India. I covered the length and breadth of the country by bus and by travelling every night to a new destination. It was an adventure and endurance trip, the goal was to not pay for lodging during those 20 days. It was fun and I learned about various parts of my country and experienced new beautiful locations that most people don't visit in their own country.

Rohan Sachidanand | I have been trying the Super Mario look with my 'stache and this is the closest I got to it, the cap is missing though.

Student: Zann Anderson

Current graduate degree: Computer Science

Hometown: Logan, Utah

What led you to graduate school? I was bored of normal developer jobs and decided I wanted to go in a more research-oriented direction. I wanted to do awesome things with computers.

Why did you choose BYU? BYU is an amazing school and has a great CS department. Also, I was an employee at the time.

Zann Anderson.

Student: Jeremy Moore

Current graduate degree: MPA

Hometown: Prescott, Arizona

What led you to graduate school? I have always wanted to make a difference in people's lives and when I found the BYU MPA program I knew that it was exactly what I wanted. Non-profits and governments are unique because they exist solely to serve (in theory), and that was just what I wanted to do.

Why did you choose BYU? BYU is a great school, a wonderful environment, and a family tradition. I didn't apply anywhere else!

Something interesting about you: I trim my mustache daily to meet stringent guidelines set by the Army (AR 670-1). and maintain professional appearance.

Jeremy Moore.

Student: Jarrod Call

Current graduate degree: Social Work

Hometown: Auburn, Washington

What led you to graduate school? After serving an LDS mission, I went through a difficult period as I attempted to navigate a personal struggle with depression, questions about sexuality, and finding my place in my faith and academic communities. Thankfully, I have been blessed with ample access to critical resources such as excellent education, reasonable economic security, accessible health care, loving family and friends, and professional assistance. I recognized that many don't have these same resources, and I wanted to work to help provide support and resources to individuals who do not have the same privilege and support that I did.

Why did you choose BYU? I always knew that I wanted to attend BYU. My family members had positive experiences there, and I loved the idea of participating in a community that has a competitive academic reputation and a vibrant spiritual community.

Something interesting about you: I actually picked my name when I was three years old. Right around my third birthday, my family moved. When we moved, my mother sat me down, explained that I had a cousin who had the same name as me (I went by Jared for the my first few years), and then asked me if I wanted to change how I pronounced my name. I decided that I liked the name Jarrod better, and have gone by that pronunciation ever since.

Jarrod Call | My mustache is like a super hero who's power is initiating conversations about men's mental health. While I don't normally sport a mustache, I love how it has helped me spread awareness, and I think it is growing on me :)

Student: Ben Grimm

Current graduate degree: EMBA

Hometown: Syracuse, Utah

What led you to graduate school? It has been a life long dream to get my MBA and when I hear LDS leaders always talking about getting as much education as we can, I wanted to get mine.

Why did you choose BYU? The values that BYU represents and the brand that BYU is. It also helps that it is so much less expensive than other places.

Something interesting about you: I have two different colored eyes and I am a first generation college graduate.

Benjamin Grimm | I don't always drink root beer. But when I do, it's A&W... Stay thirsty my BYU friends.

Student: Derrick Hunter

Current graduate degree: Accounting / Tax

Hometown: Provo, Utah

What led you to graduate school? I wanted to study accounting and Utah requires a master's degree to get a CPA license. I also did not want to limit myself and I knew that I could accomplish a lot more with a master's degree.

Why did you choose BYU? BYU was the only school I ever wanted to attend. I came for the sports and experience, I stayed for the education.

Something interesting about you: I threw up on stage twice at a high school assembly. Ew!

Derrick Hunter | I can grow a mean beard, but I have this peach fuzz for a 'stache!

Student: Isaac Wutkee

Current graduate degree: MPA

Hometown: Moorpark, California

What led you to graduate school? I finished my undergrad in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and wanted more options for a career (with an interest in working at a University), so I went into graduate school.

Why did you choose BYU? I chose BYU because the MPA program is inside the School of Management rather than a school of Public Policy, which was more appealing to me.

Something interesting about you: I wear glasses (even though I don't need them) to school when it snows solely to have a sort of windshield as I ride my bike to class. It just works for me.

Isaac Wutkee | I have five brothers, and I definitely grow the least facial hair. I have never grown a mustache before, and I'm not sure even this qualifies. But this month's effort is not about me; it's bigger than me.

Student: Bobby Hale

Current graduate degree: Electrical and Computer Engineering, PhD

Hometown: Spanish Fork, Utah

What led you to graduate school? I enjoy school, and found an interest in research that eventually led to me deciding to start a master's degree and then pursue a PhD. Never saw myself doing graduate school before my last year as an undergraduate.

Why did you choose BYU? As Michael Oher said, "Because it's where my family goes to school!" My parents and most of my siblings went to BYU, it's a fantastic school, I can be surrounded by others with my values, it's inexpensive, and it's local. Couldn't ask for more.

Something interesting about you: Everyone makes fun of me for this, but I still have this enormous stuffed fish that I've had since high school named "Jiggs." Jiggs has experienced everything from practical jokes, being part of Halloween costumes, and being an extra on "Everwood," but primarily serves as an excellent and humurous pillow.

Bobby Hale | A mustache has no glory without a beard to back it up (and a beard card to legitimize it)...and lots of scientific research equipment.

Student: Samuel Buck

Current graduate degree: Master of Information Systems Management

Hometown: Conyers, Georgia

What led you to graduate school? I wanted to gain more education in my field of study.

Why did you choose BYU? I have blue blood and enjoy being around others who have my standards.

Something interesting about you: I'm an Asian that can grow facial hair.

Samuel Buck | I grew my mustache just for my BYU card. One day I will grow a Fu Manchu!

Student: Jordan Rogers

Current graduate degree: MAcc - Tax Emphasis

Hometown: Carson City, Nevada

What led you to graduate school? It's kind of a big deal in the financial world. I wanted to be a part of that big deal.

Why did you choose BYU? I set my sights on BYU's nationally ranked accounting program on day one of my very first accounting course. Professor Kay Stice was wearing a Hawaiin button up shirt and that sold me (kidding, but kind of serious).

Something interesting about you: I'm a top collar button down shirt type of guy.

Jordan Rogers | Sometimes a man just needs to do up his top button and grow a 'stache.

Student: Kirk Snider

Current graduate degree: MBA

Hometown: Alberta, Canada

What led you to graduate school? I wanted to develop my quantitative skills and transition to a more fast paced career.

Why did you choose BYU? The faculty is amazing.

Something interesting about you: Canada has twice been invaded by the USA, first in 1775 and then 1812. Now, as a Canadian, my mustache invades the U.S.

Kirk Snider | I've never really been one to grow facial hair, but when I do, it's too light for anyone to notice. With the help of my wife's mascara, this wispy blond 'stache became a bold, manly showstopper.

Student: Rajesh Arumugam

Current graduate degree: MBA

Hometown: Pondicherry, India

What led you to graduate school? My aspirations to be product manager and lead bigger business.

Why did you choose BYU? BYU has wonderful top quality MBA program with a wide alumni network.

Something interesting about you: One of my friends constantly tells me that I could publish a book with the names of all my crushes.

Rajesh Arumugam

For more information on affordable and compelling master's and PhD programs, visit Brigham Young University – Graduate Studies at graduatestudies.byu.edu.

This story is sponsored by BYU Graduate Studies. Learn more about BYU Graduate Studies.

In a previous article on ksl, the value of a graduate degree was discussed. It was mentioned that your chosen degree could greatly affect your ROI. It highlighted that the difference in mean monthly salary between a liberal arts master’s degree and a master’s degree in business is more than $3,000 per month.

While it’s important with any graduate study to examine your investment, not everybody wants an MBA or law degree. While those degrees often are associated with high ROI, smaller, less-known programs can also pave the way for future success.

Here is a short list of four lesser-known graduate degrees that may be just what you, or someone you know, is looking for — keeping in mind that there are many other programs deserving of your time and money.

1. Art Education

The Master of Art Education Program is a two-year cohort graduate experience that offers varied experiences that are designed to help graduate students develop a deeper appreciation for art and culture both domestically and internationally. Students in the art education program develop both as artists and as teachers. They engage with teaching and curriculum development as well as hands-on studio work.

Just this year four graduate students had the opportunity to participate in field work that took them to Dharamshala in northern India to explore the cultural resilience of exiled Tibetan communities and culminated with the students being able to sit and discuss art, culture, and religion with the Dalai Llama. Experiences like this are helping the program and graduates of this program gain exposure in the world of art while also developing networking opportunities for gainful employment.

Students Discuss Tibetan Buddhism with Monks in the Dalai Llama Temple, Dharamsala, India. Photo credit: BYU Art Education Program.

2. Computer Science

Take one look around and you’ll quickly see that technology is booming, and tech jobs are on the rise, especially in Utah (Have you been to Lehi lately?). The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that computer science based jobs will grow 22 percent from 2012 to 2022.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to computer science. Check out this video showing how students are using computer science skills to help search and rescue departments find missing people.

Hands On: UAV Search & Rescue from CPMS Television on Vimeo.

3. Marriage and Family Therapy

Beginning in their first academic year, graduate students in the Marriage and Family Therapy program work directly with individuals, couples and families. This direct contact gives students an opportunity to gain real-life experience while helping families in need. The MFT program is COAMFTE accredited and has been ranked number one in research.

MFT is unique in that it uses a family-oriented perspective. Family behavior influences the individual so the treatment focus is on the relationships in which the person is imbedded.

4. Second Language Teaching Program (SLaT)

With its high population of returned missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Utah is home to many, many foreign language speakers. The unique SLaT program offered at BYU may just be perfect for those looking to use their language skills in a teaching role.

A letter released by Harvard indicates that from the years 2000 – 2011 dual immersion programs in U.S. schools grew from 260 to more than 2,000 programs. Along with the growth of dual immersion programs comes the need for qualified teachers who speak second languages and can teach those languages.

When it comes to investing in yourself, furthering your education is an unparalleled form of personal growth and future success. If you are interested in one of these four programs or any of the other 85 graduate programs offered at BYU, visit graduatestudies.byu.edu.

This story is sponsored by BYU Graduate Studies. Learn more about BYU Graduate Studies.

There are many considerations to take into account if you are debating whether or not to pursue a graduate degree. Graduate school, in many ways, is an investment in oneself. In an effort to help those interested in a master’s or a doctoral degree, here are three things to consider before you go down that road.

Cost vs. Benefits

In 2012, Pew Research Center explored the value of a post-bachelor degree and found that on average, “median monthly earnings for young adults with master's degrees were 24 percent higher than for those with bachelor's degrees.”

There are, undoubtedly, variables in this equation though. The degree one chooses to pursue has a tremendous effect on their ROI for a graduate degree. For example, the United States Census found that among those who pursued a graduate degree in liberal arts, the mean monthly salary was $5,741 dollars while the mean monthly salary for those who obtained a master’s in business was $8,849 dollars. With more than a three thousand dollar gap between the two majors, the degree you choose definitely carries weight in this decision.

You may find a significant cost difference between universities of interest. While it is vital to consider where you can obtain the best education, it is also important to explore the schools where you can get the best “bang for your buck.”

The average cost of a year of graduate school is nearly $30,000 while the cost at a private school is nearly $40,000. However, scholarships or tuition targeted toward a specific demographic can make this much more affordable.

For example, tuition is approximately $6,310 each year at Brigham Young University for graduate students who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Some companies also offer to pay a portion of their employee’s tuition.

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Photo credit: Steve Walters/BYU