LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

The Wolf: How far in advance should you ask references to write recommendation letters for you? Who should you ask to write these letters – professors, employers, etc.?

Jill Boatright: It is important to give your recommenders as much notice as possible. When thinking about who to ask, make sure to choose someone who knows you and your work well. Professors and current or former supervisors are a good place to start. For more information about asking for letters of recommendation, please consult the Strategic References handout available in the Career Development Center.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE/LETTER OF INTENT

W: Are there any guidelines for writing these? What sort of resources can students use to make sure they have a quality statement (WAC Lab, etc.)?

JB: Absolutely! For those students just starting to think about writing a personal statement, please reference our handout, “A Winning Personal Statement.” The Career Development Center offers one-on-one appointments for personal statement critiques. We also recommend that students have their personal statements reviewed by the WAC lab and professors or mentors in the discipline.

RESUME

W: Is there anything you should emphasize in particular on your resume when applying to schools?

JB: For those students just starting to craft their resumes for graduate school applications, refer to Career Services’ Resume Writing Handout. Your resume should include information about your academic credentials and experience. This can include paid or unpaid internships, volunteer positions, part-time and full-time employment, substantial academic and/or research projects, leadership positions, activities, professional memberships, certifications, awards and other accomplishments. The Career Development Center offers one-on-one appointments for resume critiques as well as walk-in hours for quick feedback.

INTERVIEWS

W: How important are admissions interviews for grad school? Do you have any tips for these interviews?

JB: Any part of the graduate school application process is important. Be sure to do your research before an admissions interview! Research both the institution and program

itself. Know what makes that specific program stand out in comparison to others. Also, do some research on the faculty. Find out what their research interests are, and learn as much as you can about their current project(s).

SCHOOL VISITS

W: Is there any sort of etiquette you should adhere to when visiting a potential grad school on an official visit?

JB: In terms of etiquette, a graduate school admissions interview is like any other interview. Dress professionally, arrive early, and act confidently and graciously.

W: Any other tips?

JB: Please see the Career Development Center’s Graduate and Professional School

webpage.