Personal Statement for Graduate School and Application Tips
Tip: Take time to research the field you want to study and how each graduate school program you are applying to presents their academic philosophy. Make sure they have a well-respected program or specialty that meets your needs.
Tip: Strategize how your personal statement can highlight your strengths and show why you are a perfect fit for their program.
Tip: Your personal statement for graduate school will be judged by your commitment to your chosen field, your history of consistent volunteer, internship and/or work experience and the logic as well as the maturity demonstrated in your Personal Statement.
Tip: Graduate Schools want to know how your presence will be felt on their campus. Emphasize activities and leadership roles in which you will continue to participate.
Tip: Identify your long term goals and how a graduate degree from their school will help you to successfully pursue them.
Tip: List any learning differences or personal challenges that have impacted your academic performance or test scores. Include any doctor’s diagnosis and prescribed academic support or medication. Also describe how a personal hardship has made you a stronger, more resourceful and more determined individual.
Tip: Whenever possible, visit the schools, meet program directors and faculty, and sit in on as many classes related to your subject as possible. This shows your genuine interest and creates valuable relationships which will be noted by admissions officers. Always follow up with a written thank you note.
Tip: Personally enlist your references and give each one a short bio of your activities, accomplishments, and anything relevant they need to know. Include a reference form if the grad school supplies one, with a stamped, addressed envelope for each college or university to which your reference is writing to. Always follow up with a written thank you note.
Tip: If required, make sure your resume or CV is professional and proofread for any errors.
If you need more help your application and personal statement for graduate school, contact Susan.
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Yale Class of 2002
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Princeton Class of 2004
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Emerson Class of 2014
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Duke Class of 2013
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Harvard Class of 2007