Applying to graduate school-Applying to sell your soul

Now that we've gotten all the prep work out of the way, let's talk about what happens during the actual process.

Step 3. Actually applying to said graduate schools.  SchoolSSSS, meaning more than one.  Never put all your eggs in one basket.  On the upside, the applications usually all want the same thing.  General information, upload your UPDATED resume, and some essays.  The essays are basically all the same and are another step of prostituting out your skills.  It's always, explain how you would benefit from education at this institution blah blah.  Honestly, look at the essays first on these apps and write out responses in word files that you can copy and paste from later.  Use spell check.  And make sure that when you use the same essay for different schools you still personalize parts for each university within the essay.  AND BE CAREFUL TO CHANGE OUT SAID NAMES AND STATEMENTS FOR EACH!  You will be doomed if you make that faux pas.  The other major requirement is the letters of recommendation, usually from 3 professionals you know.  Again, do not ask your supervisor at Macy's.  Professors and teaching assistants (labs, small classes) that you had a particularly good relationship with make the best recommendations.  The same goes for any supervisors on relevant internships you have had.  Make sure 1) that you did well in their class (B or up) and 2) you had a good attitude while in class.  I have definitely had students ask for letters of recommendation that got C's or in my notes (yes, your teachers keep notes on your behavior if they know you or the class is below 30 students) it will say "leaves early" "snippy" "disinterested and refuses to discuss class information."



Don't ask!  I'm usually gentle, the few times I've said no I'll fib a little "I'm very overloaded with work right now and don't feel I could give you an accurate representation" or "I'm sure there are other classes with would be far more beneficial to your endeavor than mine."  Heads up though, others are not always so friendly so be very careful how you choose them.  Moreover, think about what field you're going into.  It helps if you have more letters from that or similar fields than your yoga instructor and meditation course.  The final kicker here is getting your transcript sent.  You need to send 1 (sometimes 2, though why any place needs 2 official board copies I don't know...) to each school.  Subsequently, when you are accepted you will need to send the final transcript (aka post-graduation showing your degree earned) as well.  These babies run about $8 a pop, not a big deal until for 4 schools you realize you need to send 7 transcripts.  Don't let it take you by surprise.

"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it." Aristotle