Application Tips

Application Tips

http://www.gter.net 2002-10-8 22:54:00 寄托天下作者:lengleng

I got it from the website of The University of Texas at Austin
Maybe somebody has posted it.

Applying to graduate school requires some careful thought and organization.
These tips should help make the process a smooth one.

Seek advice from faculty mentors about suitable programs.
Check the Web sites of programs in your discipline.
examine the faculty research pages.
determine if there is broad diversity in the program and adequate overlap
with your research interests.
Determine which programs suit your aims/expectations. Select 3 - 8
programs.
Check deadlines and requirements. Don't delay. Budget your time to compile
the following items:
transcripts
GRE tests
letters of recommendation
electronic application? (Often replaces a paper application)
personal statement/essay
Contact faculty for letters of recommendation. This is often viewed as the
most important aspect of the application. Don't delay in requesting
letters.
provide updated resume to the faculty who will write the letters
provide reference forms and address labels
fill in the reference form information blocks
letters from science-related faculty (or employers) are the most important,
not ones from English professors, soccer coaches, and dorm advisers.
commentary about your research performance, whether in an academic lab or
in an industrial position, is critical.
Personal statement/essay:
discuss past research experience and future goals.
focus on technical talents and science, not arts, crafts, personal issues,
and hobbies.
address blemishes on academic records in a direct and factual manner.
-try to refine the letter for each program.
GRE scores:
many graduate recruiters view the GRE scores as the least important
predictor of success in graduate school.
many programs don't require the advanced subject exams.
typically the verbal and quantitative scores are evaluated.
Typical Time-line

April - October (of year preceding entrance to graduate school): consult
faculty mentors, visit Web sites of graduate programs, take GRE exams
October - December: request letters of recommendation, write personal
statement/essay, arrange for transcripts to be sent
January/early February: deadlines for most graduate programs
February/March: acceptances/rejections are issued from graduate programs
February/March: visit programs
April 15: decision day!

Is Graduate School the Right Path for You?

Graduate School may be the right path for you IF:
you have an unwavering interest in research
you have extensive past experience with research: you know the highs, the
lows, the successes, and the frustrations that go along with research
you are self-motivated and self-disciplined. Graduate school typically
brings a fair amount of freedom and independence. Slackers will perish.
you know how to manage your time. You need to set and stick to a schedule,
you need to approach tasks efficiently, and you must be aware that research
rarely follows a 9-to-5 schedule.
you already have or are willing to develop good communication and writing
skills.
you know what areas of scientific research interest you. Graduate school is
not the place to wander; it is the place to wonder.
you can explain why an advanced degree is necessary for your career path.

__________________
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用情成痴未必真，细水长流方永恒。

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