Grad School

Start early when applying to graduate school. Give yourself enough time to research schools and specific programs to get all the information you need for your search. Plan on approximately a year to complete a thorough search and to complete the application process. Graduate school is a major investment personally, intellectually, and financially. See the Getting Into Graduate School Handout

Thinking About Grad School?

The Science Writing Center
The Science Writing Center offers Personal Statement Workshops for students applying to graduate school.
Science Writing Center

Timeline

Find out when to start applying for jobs with our "Grad School Timeline" handout!

Personal Statement/Letter of Intent

As you write your personal statement or letter of intent, be sure to follow the prompt in the application if there is one. Sometimes programs leave it open ended. This list will help you think about what to write if a prompt is not provided.

  • What are your career goals?
  • Why are you interested in this industry?
  • Why is this specific program at this specific school the best fit for you?
  • What are your best qualifications?
  • Tell a story – depending on space and the prompt, try to tell a story or have a common thread through the statement to make it more engaging to read. Think about ideas such as what influenced your decision to pursue this path or a significant moment/person that influenced your decision

Some additional tips: