4 answers
Hannah
Student
Harrisonburg, Virginia
2
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When considering grad school, what makes an application stand out?
For a grad applicant, what are some things that the programs prefer on a resume and how do I present myself in a way that will give me a leg up? #graduate-school #school
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4 answers
Tammie Stagnitta
Project Manager
7
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
Tammie’s Answer
Hannah:
It is great to hear you are considering graduate school and that you are thinking about what might make your application memorable.
There are several great articles with important suggestions to separate your application from the rest. Many common themes (other than grades/GRE test scores) are:
+ Start the process early to allow yourself enough time to write a quality essay and provide the schools with all of the information they are requesting
+ In the essay, make a compelling personal statement to market yourself to the school administrators
+ Have clear career aspirations and explain how their program fits in with your pursuits
+ Choose good references and provide your references with information that they may be able to use about you to provide a substantive letter
There are a few helpful questions on http://blog.gradschoolmatch.com/memorable-candidate-grad-school/ which might help to guide you when writing your essay:
- What about your background (educational or professional experience) has prepared you for an advanced degree in this field?
- Why are you interested in pursuing further education in this field?
- What do you intend to get out of graduate schools and how does that relate to your future career aspirations? How does this particular program fit into that vision?
- Why are you specifically interested in this program out of all of those in the same field? Which of the program’s strengths lend themselves well to your goals? Which professors or courses particularly interested you?
- Why is now the right time for you to pursue a graduate degree?
- What is it that you (and only you) can bring to the program?
When I went to visit graduate schools that accepted me into their programs, I was repeatedly told what helped me the most were my reference letters so don't underestimate their importance!
I wish you the best with your future academic endeavors!
Great recommendation
Katcha Taylor
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6084
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Hannah,
What Makes an Application Stand Out for Grad School?
When applying to graduate school, there are several key factors that can make your application stand out from the rest:
Strong Academic Record: A high GPA in your undergraduate studies is crucial. Most programs look for candidates with a solid academic background to ensure they can handle the rigor of graduate-level coursework.
Relevant Work Experience: Programs often value applicants who have relevant work experience in the field they are applying to. This demonstrates practical knowledge and a commitment to the field.
Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or professionals in the field can greatly enhance your application. These letters should speak to your skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in graduate school.
Statement of Purpose: A well-written statement of purpose is essential. This is your opportunity to explain why you are interested in the program, what you hope to achieve, and how the program aligns with your goals.
Research Experience: For research-based programs, having research experience can be a significant advantage. This could include independent research projects, internships, or collaborations with faculty members.
Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in extracurricular activities related to your field of study or leadership roles can demonstrate your commitment and passion for the subject beyond academics.
Standardized Test Scores: While not always the most important factor, strong GRE or GMAT scores can help strengthen your application, especially if other aspects are not as competitive.
Unique Contributions or Experiences: Highlight any unique experiences, skills, or contributions that set you apart from other applicants. This could be international experience, overcoming significant challenges, or specialized skills relevant to the program.
How to Present Yourself on a Resume for Grad School Applications:
Clear and Concise Format: Ensure your resume is well-organized and easy to read. Use bullet points to highlight key achievements and experiences.
Relevant Information: Tailor your resume to each program you are applying to by emphasizing experiences and skills that are most relevant to the specific requirements of that program.
Quantify Achievements: Where possible, quantify your achievements with numbers or percentages to provide concrete evidence of your accomplishments.
Professional Tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout your resume and avoid using overly casual language or unnecessary details.
Highlight Skills and Accomplishments: Focus on showcasing your skills, accomplishments, and experiences that directly relate to the program you are applying for.
Proofread Carefully: Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors on your resume. Attention to detail is important in demonstrating professionalism.
Use Action Verbs: Start each bullet point with a strong action verb to convey impact and achievement in each experience listed on your resume.
By following these guidelines and presenting yourself effectively on your resume with attention-grabbing content that aligns with what graduate programs seek, you can increase your chances of standing out among other applicants.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Peterson’s Graduate School Search: Peterson’s is a well-known resource for information on graduate programs and admissions processes. Their insights on what makes a strong grad school application were instrumental in crafting this response.
The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review offers expert advice on various aspects of higher education, including tips for crafting impressive resumes for grad school applications.
U.S News Education: U.S News Education provides rankings and guides for prospective students looking into graduate programs across different fields of study which helped inform the importance of certain factors in grad school applications.
GOD BLESS YOU,
JC.
What Makes an Application Stand Out for Grad School?
When applying to graduate school, there are several key factors that can make your application stand out from the rest:
Strong Academic Record: A high GPA in your undergraduate studies is crucial. Most programs look for candidates with a solid academic background to ensure they can handle the rigor of graduate-level coursework.
Relevant Work Experience: Programs often value applicants who have relevant work experience in the field they are applying to. This demonstrates practical knowledge and a commitment to the field.
Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or professionals in the field can greatly enhance your application. These letters should speak to your skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in graduate school.
Statement of Purpose: A well-written statement of purpose is essential. This is your opportunity to explain why you are interested in the program, what you hope to achieve, and how the program aligns with your goals.
Research Experience: For research-based programs, having research experience can be a significant advantage. This could include independent research projects, internships, or collaborations with faculty members.
Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in extracurricular activities related to your field of study or leadership roles can demonstrate your commitment and passion for the subject beyond academics.
Standardized Test Scores: While not always the most important factor, strong GRE or GMAT scores can help strengthen your application, especially if other aspects are not as competitive.
Unique Contributions or Experiences: Highlight any unique experiences, skills, or contributions that set you apart from other applicants. This could be international experience, overcoming significant challenges, or specialized skills relevant to the program.
How to Present Yourself on a Resume for Grad School Applications:
Clear and Concise Format: Ensure your resume is well-organized and easy to read. Use bullet points to highlight key achievements and experiences.
Relevant Information: Tailor your resume to each program you are applying to by emphasizing experiences and skills that are most relevant to the specific requirements of that program.
Quantify Achievements: Where possible, quantify your achievements with numbers or percentages to provide concrete evidence of your accomplishments.
Professional Tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout your resume and avoid using overly casual language or unnecessary details.
Highlight Skills and Accomplishments: Focus on showcasing your skills, accomplishments, and experiences that directly relate to the program you are applying for.
Proofread Carefully: Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors on your resume. Attention to detail is important in demonstrating professionalism.
Use Action Verbs: Start each bullet point with a strong action verb to convey impact and achievement in each experience listed on your resume.
By following these guidelines and presenting yourself effectively on your resume with attention-grabbing content that aligns with what graduate programs seek, you can increase your chances of standing out among other applicants.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Peterson’s Graduate School Search: Peterson’s is a well-known resource for information on graduate programs and admissions processes. Their insights on what makes a strong grad school application were instrumental in crafting this response.
The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review offers expert advice on various aspects of higher education, including tips for crafting impressive resumes for grad school applications.
U.S News Education: U.S News Education provides rankings and guides for prospective students looking into graduate programs across different fields of study which helped inform the importance of certain factors in grad school applications.
GOD BLESS YOU,
JC.
David Huh
Finance Manager
21
Answers
Wanaque, New Jersey
Updated
David’s Answer
I think I'd make sure you focus on two aspects and make sure it shines through and through the application:
1. What made you realize you want to pursue a grad degree in this field?
2. If accepted, how will you make the student body more diverse and well rounded? What will YOU contribute to the make up of the student body in terms of your experiences, view points, opinions, aspirations, etc.?
The school is looking to bolster its population so that everyone gets more out of attending. The learning happens not only in the classroom but amongst the student body. So I'd make sure you approach the process from that lens.
Good luck!
1. What made you realize you want to pursue a grad degree in this field?
2. If accepted, how will you make the student body more diverse and well rounded? What will YOU contribute to the make up of the student body in terms of your experiences, view points, opinions, aspirations, etc.?
The school is looking to bolster its population so that everyone gets more out of attending. The learning happens not only in the classroom but amongst the student body. So I'd make sure you approach the process from that lens.
Good luck!
Brian Eggie
Sakes
4
Answers
Voorhees Township, New Jersey
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hi. I went to grad school. I think what’s makes it stand out is when you can link a story to why you want to go that route. Perhaps a life experience or a personal situation that inspired you to pursue higher education. Also , connect that inspiration to how you will initiate change for the better. They want to see motivation and creativity and Being part of a community that will society in general.