This blog post is all about graduate school applications and how you can prepare ahead of time.
First off, here is a checklist that most STEM Phd programs require in their applications. This varies program to program, so be sure to pay attention towards that.
Things you need for a completed application:
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Personal Statement
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Statement of Purpose/Research Statement
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Diversity Statement (some programs)
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3 Letter of Recommendations (some programs allow up to 6)
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume
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University Transcript (Unofficial to apply, but you are required to provide and official transcript after accepting an offer)
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GRE scores (mostly optional)
These are the major materials that you will need for a graduate school application.
How can you start preparing?
In my experience, there are a few things that you can begin developing as soon as you begin your college studies, especially your letter of recommendations. Even if you are not 100% sure about applying to graduate school, you should always try your best to talk to your professors because they are the ones who have the ability to write you a letter of recommendation. After you graduate, or finish their course that quarter or semester, they have to teach even more students. So, it’s always a good rule of thumb to get to know your professors as soon as possible.
What if it’s too late?
It’s never too late. I personally felt very passionate about my upper division courses and it was natural for me to go talk with my professors during office hours. I didn’t really see it as a task, but rather a way to know more about their research and their course material.
You can also work or do a post-bacc program after undergrad, which will help with getting those letters. However, some programs accept more than 3, so if you reaaallly enjoy a class and want to know your professor more, it’s never too early and never too late!
ESSAYS
Personal statements/research statements/diversity statements
Take as much time as you need, but generally, writing these statements take longer than you think. Also, giving yourself time to start early and come up with multiple versions, will only help you! Butttt, some of us are procrastinators, including me. In which case, I’d recommend begin drafting your statements at least 4 months ahead. This will give you justttt enough time to get feedback from friends and colleagues, and also make edits.
