How Do Graduate School Admissions Committees Assess Applications?

Graduate School Admissions
What metrics do grad school admissions committees use to assess applicants?

Today we’re talking about how graduate school admissions committees assess applications. I’m Brian from Gurufi. In my 17 years in this field, I’ve helped thousands of applicants earn admission into their dream schools, so I have a thorough grasp of how this process works. We’ll look at the main criteria used to evaluate graduate applications in this post, as well as how they differ from undergraduate admissions criteria.

First and foremost, it’s critical to realize that graduate school admissions committees want applicants who can show they have what it takes to excel in their programs and advance their fields. As such, graduate admissions committees take a more comprehensive and holistic approach than those for undergraduate applications, where grades and test scores are frequently the main focus. Graduate school admissions committees take into account a variety of elements to determine a candidate’s potential, including their academic performance, test results, recommendations, personal statements, and “show me” materials. Most importantly, they care in a hyper-specific way about whether you will excel in this field you’re applying to.

Start with your grades and test results. They do play a vital part in the appraisal process, but they don’t occupy the same primary role they do in, for instance, medical school or law school applications. Because graduate programs are challenging, admissions committees look for proof that applicants have the academic background required to succeed. This often implies that applicants must have an excellent undergraduate GPA with an emphasis on courses pertinent to their desired graduate program. Indeed, most graduate programs will either ask you to provide the GPA for just your major or use other metrics to create their own internal GPA that weights higher level courses, classes you took after your freshman year, and classes that are relevant to the grad program. Also, though it’s becoming increasingly rare, a lot of programs demand that applicants take standardized exams like the GRE. In theory, these exams give admissions committees a tool to compare candidates’ intellectual potential and prowess… but in reality they’re mostly used to weed out applicants in the initial phases of evaluation. As such, the fact that you have a strong GPA or test result does not ensure admission.

Another important element in the review process is recommendations. The potential of a candidate for graduate study and research is something that admissions committees are interested in hearing about. This often implies that candidates must provide letters of recommendation from academics or other experts who are familiar with them and can vouch for their qualifications. A candidate’s talents and prospective contributions to the area are highlighted in strong letters of reference, which may also offer insightful information about the applicant’s character and work ethic.

The evaluation procedure also considers personal statements. The chance to demonstrate one’s personality, interests, and ambitions, as well as to argue why one is a suitable match for the program, is provided by the application. Statements that are well-written, considerate, and show a good grasp of the school and area are what admissions committees look for. Good personal statements demonstrate that the candidate is devoted to continuing graduate education in their profession and that they have a strong sense of purpose.

Last but not least, “show me” materials are also quite important in the evaluation procedure. This comprises essays, publications, writing samples, articles, presentations, lab work, and other work related to the graduate program. These resources offer verifiable proof of a candidate’s potential and exhibit their capacity to advance the field. For instance, a quality writing sample might highlight an applicant’s analytical and critical thinking talents, while lab experience can highlight their research capabilities. For students who might not have a great academic history or test scores but who have other experiences that illustrate their ability for graduate study, “show me” materials are especially crucial.

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn

#GradSchoolAdmissions #HolisticApproach #STEMMasters #STEMPhD #HumanitiesMasters #HumanitiesPhD #SocialScienceMasters #SocialSciencePhD #StrongAcademicRecord #RecommendationLetters #PersonalStatements #ShowMeMaterials #GRE #GMAT #ResearchExperience #CriticalThinking #AnalyticalSkills #AcademicPreparation #GraduateStudy #FieldOfStudy #PotentialForSuccess #ContributionToTheField #AdmissionsProcess #HigherEducation #GradSchoolTips #GradSchoolSuccess

How to Think About the Stanford GSB Personal Statement

“What means most to you and why?” Stanford GSB’s first prompt provides a great way to think about my Rule #1 for Writing a Great Personal Statement: write more like it’s a movie than an essay.

Far too many applicants begin their essay with the rote (and boring) “Value X matters most to me because…” Congratulations. In your hyper-literal reading of the prompt, you’ve instantly bored your reader, or at the very least began your essay in precisely the same way that 50% of the other applicants did. People make this mistake because they think of this as something akin to a memo or an academic essay, and not as a venue for storytelling. When you think like a screenwriter, you know that you CAN answer the question, but do so in a way that builds on storytelling, emphasizes conflict and growth, and puts YOU and your journey central.

I’ve seen a lot of essays in my capacity as a professional editor and consultant, and I can attest that those that convey a memorable and moving story tend to be the most successful. Stories have the ability to emotionally engage readers, explain difficult concepts in a sympathetic manner, and leave a lasting impact. Because of this, approaching your personal statement like a movie can make it pop, or at least stand out from the crowd. Personal statements that move the needle share these things in common with great movies: they have a distinct narrative, characters, and themes. A good essay brings your reader on a journey where your ACTIONS and decisions demonstrate your values. In other words, a great story allows you to showwhat’s important to you, and why.

Let’s examine some of a movie’s essential components and see how they apply to your personal statement:

The story: Every film has a start, middle, and end. Your personal statement needs to be organized in a way that leads the reader through your narrative. They know who were at the beginning of a story, they encounter a crisis or moment of decision with you, they understand the choice you made, and they see how it transformed you or revealed something important about you. Abstractly talking about your values is a B- essay, and if you want an A+ personal statement, you have to show them how you were willing to incur a cost or invest something of yourself to live out your values.

Characters: A movie’s characters are what make it interesting to watch. Similarly, your personal statement should highlight your personality and distinguishing qualities. Make yourself come to life on the page by using descriptive details and, more importantly, taking the reader into moments of decision. Making your readers care about you and your experience is your main objective.

The theme: Many movies have underlying themes that strike a chord with their audience. Themes that unify your story should be evident in your personal statement, too. You might investigate subjects like social justice, tenacity, or resilience. Make sure your themes reflect your beliefs and objectives and explain what is most important to you. This is obviously at the heart of the “what matters most to you,” but don’t get so focused on theme that you turn the essay into an amateur treatise on the nature and importance of that value. Instead, use your story to SHOW your values.

In my experience, Stanford’s essay is one of the best in terms of separating out great, mediocre, and bad candidates. It forces applicants to focus on a theme of personal importance, but it also presents some hidden pitfalls in that many applicants allow themselves to get distracted from the importance of storytelling.

If you’re uncertain of your approach, have us help you out! Gurufi specializes in assisting candidates with creating compelling personal statements. We’ve assisted thousands of students in being accepted to prestigious programs all around the world, and it would be our delight to assist you as well. Our staff of knowledgeable editors and consultants is ready to help you whether you need assistance with idea generation or writing and revising your essay.

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top MBA programs. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Lifetime STEM Ph.D. Earnings

STEM PhD earnings
STEM PhDs have a lot of great career options!

Non-Academic Positions for STEM PhDs in Science

         Here at Gurufi, we love working with STEM Ph.D. applicants. Compared to social science or humanities Ph.D. applicants, STEM doctoral candidates have in mind a diverse array of goals for what they aspire to do after earning their degrees. Indeed, one of the superpowers of a STEM PhD is that you have a lot of options after earning your degree. STEM PhDs are in great demand across a wide range of professions and sectors, and they frequently have excellent financial prospects. Here, we will examine the various options and also the possible lifetime earnings of STEM PhDs in a variety of vocations.

Academic Careers: Many STEM PhDs choose to work in academia as professors or researchers in colleges or research facilities. Despite the fact that academic salary can vary greatly depending on the discipline and the institution, tenure-track professor positions can provide steady pay with yearly increments and prospects for advancement. The National Science Foundation reported that in 2017, the median pay for full-time, tenure-track academics in the disciplines of science and engineering was $96,000.

Careers in Industry: STEM PhDs can also work for organizations in industries including biotechnology, engineering, and computer science. In 2020, the American Chemical Society found that engineers with PhDs in industry earned a median income of $136,000 while chemists with PhDs in industry earned a median salary of $130,000. STEM PhDs frequently command greater compensation and more senior positions within their firms as they advance in their careers and accumulate more expertise.

STEM PhDs can also act as consultants, offering knowledgeable counsel to companies and organizations. The typical pay for management consultants with PhDs was $139,000 in 2021, according to statistics from Glassdoor. Consultants can frequently demand even larger fees as they gain more expertise and establish their reputations as experts in their professions.

Science communication is a developing subject that includes explaining difficult scientific ideas to a broad audience.

STEM PhDs can work in a variety of scientific communication positions, including as writing, editing, and generating material for media outlets or for non-profit or governmental groups. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2020, the median pay for writers and authors was $67,120. The pay scale might vary greatly based on the position and sector, although skilled scientific communicators frequently earn greater income.

Science Policy: STEM PhDs can also work in scientific policy, utilizing their knowledge to help make decisions about the environment, health, and other topics. Jobs in science policy are available in the public sector, the nonprofit sector, and the commercial sector. Science policy analysts made a median income of $95,000 in 2021, per Glassdoor statistics.

Intellectual Property Law: STEM PhDs can work in the field of intellectual property law, defending people’s and companies’ rights with relation to their intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. The median annual salary for attorneys in 2020 was $126,930, according to statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, while many attorneys made substantially more money.

 

Job Title Average Annual Salary Estimated Lifelong Earnings (40-Year Career)
Professor/Researcher (Academic) $96,000 (NSF, 2017) $3,840,000
Research Scientist (Industry) $105,000 (Glassdoor, 2021) $4,200,000
Management Consultant $139,000 (Glassdoor, 2021) $5,560,000
Data Scientist $121,000 (Glassdoor, 2021) $4,840,000
Science Writer/Editor $67,120 (BLS, 2020) $2,684,800
Patent Attorney/Agent $170,000 (Glassdoor, 2021) $6,800,000
Medical Science Liaison $138,000 (Glassdoor, 2021) $5,520,000

If these sound like exciting careers to you, and you’d like to pursue a STEM Ph.D. or Masters, be sure to contact us at Gurufi.com! Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

  1. “What Are Some Non-Academic Career Options for PhDs in STEM Fields?” by The Muse: https://www.themuse.com/advice/what-are-some-nonacademic-career-options-for-phds-in-stem-fields
  2. “10 Non-Academic Career Paths for PhDs in STEM” by Next Scientist: https://www.nextscientist.com/non-academic-career-paths-phds-stem/
  3. “What Can You Do With a PhD in STEM Outside of Academia?” by Cheeky Scientist: https://cheekyscientist.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-phd-in-stem-outside-of-academia/
  4. “From PhD to Consultant: A Non-Academic Career Path” by The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/higher-education-network/2017/feb/02/from-phd-to-consultant-a-non-academic-career-path
  5. “What Can You Do With a PhD in Physics Besides Teach?” by Physics Today: https://physicstoday.scitation.org/doi/10.1063/PT.3.4794
  6. “Non-Academic Career Paths for Scientists” by AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowships: https://www.aaas.org/programs/science-technology-policy-fellowships/non-academic-career-paths-scientists
  7. “What Non-Academic Careers Are Available for Science PhDs?” by TopResume: https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/what-non-academic-careers-are-available-for-science-phds
  8. “Alternative Career Paths for Scientists” by Nature: https://www.nature.com/articles/nj7551-325a
  9. “Alternative Careers for Science PhDs” by Columbia University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences: https://gsas.columbia.edu/student-guide/academic-resources/alternative-careers-science-phds
  10. “Non-Academic Career Options for Biomedical PhDs” by National Postdoctoral Association: https://www.nationalpostdoc.org/page/non-academic-biomedical-careers

How Much Do Humanities PhDs Earn?

what will humanities PhDs earn?
Gurufi explores how much a humanities PhD is worth

 

At Gurufi, we have nearly two decades of experience in helping people earn admission into competitive graduate programs. As a result, we understand just what a complicated and fraught decision it is to pursue doctoral studies. When people are considering whether to pursue a Ph.D., one of their main concerns is whether, at the end of their long training, there’s going to be an academic job for them. Relatedly, if they don’t get an academic job, will they be able to find gainful employment of any kind? Well, the answer to these questions is sort of a good-news / bad-news situation. First, the bad news. As we’ve covered before, people often overestimate their post-graduate school prospects in academia. The long-story-short is that it’s pretty dire for humanities PhDs. Only half to 60% of Ph.D. students seeking a tenure-track job will get one.

The good news, though, is that even if you cannot secure a tenure-track position, there are options available. The assumption is that these fallback options often make than people in other professions, but is this truly the case? Here, we will examine the lifetime incomes of PhDs in the humanities, both in academic and non-academic work tracks.       First, let’s define what a doctorate in the humanities is. The wide category of humanities includes disciplines like literature, philosophy, history, languages, and cultural studies. Years of education, research, and writing are frequently required to earn a doctorate in these subjects, and the process culminates in a dissertation that adds something new to the field. In short, becoming a Ph.D. requires that you demonstrate intellect, focus, hard work, and creativity. Thus, it’s not a surprise that you’ll end up possessing skills that make you attractive on the job market.

 

Academic Career Path

 

A tenure-track post in a college or university is a typical career route for humanities doctorate holders. The American Association of University Professors estimates that a full-time faculty member made an average income of $94,837 in 2021–2022. Yet, this figure might differ significantly based on the institution, the field, and the region. For instance, research university professors often make more money than their counterparts at liberal arts institutions. In addition, as compared to STEM fields, humanities fields often have lower average incomes.

The job market for tenure-track posts is an additional issue to take into account. Not every PhD graduate will be successful in landing a tenure-track post since the academic employment market can be quite competitive. In reality, just around 25% of PhDs in the humanities land tenure-track jobs, according to a Chronicle of Higher Education survey. The route to tenure may be long and uncertain for those who do land a tenure-track job, with many elements that are beyond their control.

 

Non-Academic Career Path

 

While obtaining a tenure-track post is frequently the objective of humanities PhD candidates, this is not the only possible career option. A rising number of people now understand that PhDs in the humanities have significant abilities that may be used in a variety of occupations outside of academia. Among these professions are:

Nonprofit industry: Numerous non-profit organizations need someone with good research, writing, and communication abilities, including museums, cultural institutions, and advocacy groups. These roles, which sometimes entail conducting research, writing grants, and creating instructional programs, might be ideal for those with PhDs in the humanities.

Publishing: Humanities PhDs have extensive writing and editing experience, which is helpful in the publishing sector. Editorial jobs, marketing, and sales positions are all possible careers in publishing.

Government: People with a variety of talents, such as research and writing, are employed by the government. PhDs in the humanities can work in fields including public policy, international relations, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Education: Although many humanities PhD candidates want to land tenure-track positions as professors, there are additional chances to teach outside of academic institutions. For instance, those with a Doctorate in English could find employment as English teachers in high schools or as instructors in community colleges.

Consulting: Companies that provide consulting services frequently seek out candidates with great research and analytical abilities. These professions, which might entail performing market research, evaluating data, and designing strategies for customers, may be a good fit for humanities PhDs.

 

The Georgetown University Center for Education and the Workforce reports that the typical annual pay for humanities PhDs employed in management, business, and finance is $121,000. The typical annual compensation for those working in the media and communications is $96,000, while the median annual salary for those working in education and training is $81,000.

It is vital to remember that, despite the fact that non-academic career paths might be profitable for humanities PhD holders, they frequently call for extra education and experience beyond the degree. For instance, people who work in publishing might need to develop their writing or editing skills, while those who run charitable organizations would need to develop their grant-writing or fundraising skills.

 

Job Type Average Salary Estimated Lifetime Earnings
College Professor $78,464 $1.5 million
Non-Tenure-Track $52,500 $1.0 million
Adjunct Professor $2,700/course $810,000
Publisher $68,000 $1.8 million
Journalist $50,000 $1.5 million
Public Relations $60,000 $1.8 million
Nonprofit Management $70,000 $2.1 million
Education and Training $81,000 $2.4 million
Media and Communications $96,000 $2.9 million
Management, Business, and Finance $121,000 $3.6 million

 

 

 

Lifetime Income

 

It is crucial to take both academic and non-academic career paths into account when estimating the lifetime earnings of PhDs in the humanities. The biggest income potential may be found in tenure-track posts at research universities, but many humanities PhDs may need to look into other professional options in order to make ends meet.

 

The Georgetown University Center for Education and the Workforce found that humanities Doctorate holders who work in education and training make an average lifetime income of $1.5 million. Median lifetime earnings for people in the management, business, and financial sectors are $3.3 million, while those in the media and communications sector may anticipate earning a typical lifetime income of $2.2 million.

 

Earning a Ph.D. can be one of the most meaningful -and even fun!- processes of your life. And, doing so with the knowledge that you have career options on the other side can be genuinely comforting!

 

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

 

Sources:

American Association of University Professors. (2020). Annual report on the economic status of the profession, 2019-20. Retrieved from https://www.aaup.org/sites/default/files/2019-20%20Economic%20Status%20Report.pdf

Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. (2018). The economic value of college majors. Retrieved from https://cew.georgetown.edu/wp-content/uploads/Economic-Value-of-College-Majors-Full-Report-web-FINAL.pdf

Inside Higher Ed. (2021). Adjunct faculty pay remains low. Retrieved from https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2021/01/22/adjunct-faculty-pay-remains-low

National Humanities Alliance. (2020). Non-academic careers for humanities PhDs: A guide to professional development in the humanities. Retrieved from https://www.nhalliance.org/non_academic_careers_for_humanities_phds

PayScale. (2023). Average salaries for popular jobs for humanities PhD holders. Retrieved from https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Doctor_of_Philosophy_(PhD)%2C_Humanities/Salary

 

For additional information, check out these links:

Basic Strategies for Your Medical School Application

frustrated medical school applicant
Make sure that you have a strategy for your medical school application

I don’t have to tell you that it’s hard as hell to get into medical school. To improve your chances of acceptance to medical school, it’s crucial to plan your application carefully. This means not trying to do too much in any particular portion of it. View your application holistically, and plan what you’ll emphasize in each part so that you cover maximum ground, and cover it well.

             https://youtube.com/shorts/xg6TjDc0Fw0           

The place to begin is your main personal statement. You have 5300 characters to frame your application, and that’s how you should view it: as an opening argument and something like an “elevator pitch” where you provide your best few arguments, most impactful experiences, or most compelling stories. Before you start, you may worry about filling up 5300 characters, but by the time you’re done, you’ll likely recognize just how precious that space is! In just 1.5 pages, you have the chance to introduce yourself to the admissions panel, share your background, and discuss your motivation for pursuing a career in medicine. Your approach to this essay must be strategic and viewed in conjunction with your broader application. You should demonstrate your enthusiasm for medicine while highlighting your most noteworthy accomplishments, experiences, and aspirations. Also, to keep the reader engaged, make sure your personal statement is well-written and interesting.

BUT, DO NOT TRY TO SAY EVERYTHING. There will be important stuff that you just can’t fit into your personal statement. Don’t try. Save some stuff for later. When people try to cover all the ground in their main personal statement, their stories will feel rushed or thin and they’ll struggle to convey a clear and coherent theme. That’s why you should use the Work & Activities section to go into depth about complementary or otherwise additional activities that are meaningful to you. Extracurricular activities, community service, research, and job experience are all included in this area. When it comes to selecting your “Most Meaningful” entries that allow you additional space, you should concentrate on experiences that have a direct bearing on medicine. You should also go into depth about your duties and the lessons you took away from them.

The secondary school-specific essays are a fantastic chance to demonstrate how well you would fit into particular medical schools you are applying to. Understanding the school’s mission, strengths, and core beliefs requires research, of course. You can then modify your writings to showcase your experiences and abilities that complement the objectives of the institution. By doing this, you show the school that you are a good fit for them and increase your chances of getting in.

Think of your medical school application as a package that covers lots of ground. Each part of the application should focus on a different job, and while it’s okay to have some overlap, they should never feel redundant. If you’re smart and plan beforehand, you can put together an application package that provides real depth of analysis and self-reflection on a few really important moments AND breadth regarding the various things that you’ve done.

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top medical schools. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

#MedicalSchoolApplication #MedSchoolApplication #PreMed #PreMedLife #MedSchoolGoals #MedicalCareer #MedicalStudent #FutureDoctor #MedSchoolJourney #MedicalEducation #MedicalTraining #DoctorInTraining #MedicalExperience #VolunteerWork #MedicalResearch #PersonalStatement #WorkAndActivities #SecondaryEssays #MedicalSchoolAdmissions #MedicalSchoolInterview #MedSchoolTips #MedicalSchoolPreparation #MCAT #MedicalAdmissions #MedicalSchoolAcceptance #MedicalSchoolRequirements #MedSchoolLife #Medicine #MedicalCommunity #HealthcareCareer #HealthcareEducation #AMCAS

Choosing Between Multiple Schools

When I checked my email this morning, I remembered why this is my favorite time of year! Two of my favorite clients got into their dream schools, and my back-and-forth emails with a client who just found out that he got into Stanford brought a warm feeling to my heart that just about melted the huge pile of snow outside my house!

During the late fall and early winter, we’re incredibly busy at Gurufi, helping clients get into their dream schools. But now, our clients are starting to hear back from graduate and medical programs, and the good news we get is fantastic and justifies all the late nights working with them to perfect their personal statements and CVs. But now, many of our clients face a happy dilemma: how do you choose between two good schools?

Though technically speaking picking from among schools isn’t part of my job, I often give clients some advice about this question based on years of experience. Here are ten thoughts on how to pick between schools after you’ve been offered admission!

  1. Ask yourself: do I want to live there? One of the biggest mistakes that I’ve seen people make is to view their graduate school experience as something that they should just endure or merely Not your preferred location? Well… it’s only a few years! That is the wrong approach. If you’re happy, you’re more likely to thrive, make connections, and get the most out of the experience. So, take the school’s location and size into account. Think about whether you want to attend a large or small school and if you want to live in a major city or a small town. Ask yourself, “is this somewhere I could live?” Don’t be afraid to try something new, but listen to what your gut says and ask yourself “could I thrivehere?”

  1. Once again, look into the academics and how well they align with your goals. Especially if you’re trying to decide between comparable programs, take the time to do another “final check,” perhaps even more in-depth than when choosing whether to apply. Check out the instructors and available programs. Check the curriculum to see if it fits your professional objectives, and look into the professors to see if they have any relevant experience or publications. Contact current students and ask them what they love and what they wish they could change. Write down what you think your two years of coursework, training, resources, and extracurriculars would look like.

  1. Okay, fine… take into account the school’s reputation and ranking. I am a HUGE believer in the idea that fit matters more than ranking, but ranking and reputation do matter. Rankings should not be the primary consideration, but they can help you determine the standing of the institution and the caliber of its curriculum.

  1. Think about the alumni and current students you’ve met. By this point, you’ve likely talked to lots of current students and alumni. Once you’ve been admitted, use LinkedIn and other resources that the school provides to have more conversations about the school and its strengths. You’ll likely find that students are even more frank with students who’ve been admitted. Similarly, find out about how active alumni are and the kinds of things that they’re up to. After graduation, a robust alumni network may offer useful contacts and assistance.

  1. Price compare. Usually, schools provide financial aid and cost information a few weeks after admission. Sometimes longer. As soon as you have this information, it’s time to get down to brass tacks. How much are you willing to spend? Importantly, you can also use this period to bargain. Contact the Admissions and Financial Aid offices if you’ve gotten a more generous package from another school, and ask them to close the gap. They won’t always be able to do so, but they often can, and it never hurts to ask! At any rate, once you have some solid numbers, a basic ROI assessment that includes everything from long-term trajectory to immediate salary bumps can help you figure out your next move.

  1. Don’t forget to do a deep dive into local expenses! If you’re comparing, for instance, NYU and Ross, remember to account for the fact that Manhattan is a lot pricier than Ann Arbor.

  1. Listen to your gut… but you don’t have to obey it! Churchill said that “intuition is reason in a hurry.” There’s real truth to this. In 99% of cases, people have a gut-level preference for one school. Begin by acknowledging what this is, and then ask why. Are you a little too enamored with rankings? Did the campus dazzle you? Whatever the reason, ask yourself a follow-up question: is the basis of my gut’s decision rational and good? If not, then be willing to deny your intuition and take a more thoughtful approach. If so, then you know what to do!

  1. Consider the culture and ideals of the school. To learn more about the school’s culture and beliefs and determine whether they coincide with your own, visit the school’s website and go to informational sessions. If this hasn’t been made clear to you, ask somebody. Attending a school where your values align with theirs is vital, so don’t overlook it.

  1. Dig into the data. Now is the time to get even fussier about all of the relevant data that schools keep. What’s their 1-year and 5-year employment data look like? Average salary? Long-term satisfaction rate (or its proxy: alumni giving percentage)? You probably looked at this information during the application process, but now is the time to do it again!

  1. Take into account the school’s inclusion and diversity. A varied and inclusive school may offer a richer educational experience and can also be a positive reflection of the ideals of the institution. And if that touchy-feely stuff doesn’t move you, remember that you’re hoping to thrive within an increasingly global and diverse world, so be sure that you have the background and comfort level to do this!

I hope that you have the happy conundrum of trying to choose between great options! If you’d like to have this problem, then be sure to check us out Gurufi.com!  For seventeen years, we’ve helped thousands of clients craft powerful personal statements and attractive CVs. Check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top medical, law, and graduate programs. We pride ourselves in guaranteeing the satisfaction of every client. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Gurufi Podcast: IESE University’s Director of Admissions

MBA Podcast
the Gurufi MBA Podcast

 

Welcome to our podcast today where we will be interviewing the Director of Admissions at IESE MBA program in Barcelona. IESE is a top-ranked business school, consistently ranked among the best in Europe and the world. Its MBA program is renowned for its excellence, innovation, and global perspective.

The Director of Admissions at IESE MBA program is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the field of business education. She has been a part of the IESE community for several years and has played a crucial role in shaping the school’s admissions policies and procedures. With her vast knowledge and expertise, she is well-equipped to provide us with valuable insights into the admissions process and what makes the IESE MBA program unique.

In this podcast, we will discuss the IESE MBA program’s application process, the qualities the admissions team looks for in potential candidates, the importance of work experience and academic background, and what sets the IESE MBA program apart from other business schools. We will also discuss the current state of the job market and how the IESE MBA program is preparing students for success in a post-pandemic world.

The Director of Admissions will share her personal experiences and insights into the admissions process, including tips on how applicants can stand out from the crowd and make their application stand out. She will also discuss the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion and how it is reflected in the admissions process.

We will delve into the IESE MBA program’s unique curriculum, which is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education and prepare them for leadership positions in a variety of industries. We will also discuss the school’s strong focus on experiential learning and how it is integrated into the curriculum.

Overall, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone considering applying to the IESE MBA program or interested in learning more about business education in general. The Director of Admissions at IESE MBA program is a wealth of knowledge, and we are honored to have her on our podcast today. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn from one of the best in the business!

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

#MBAadmissions #personalstatement #admissionsconsulting #businessschool #gradschool #MBAapplication #MBAprograms #MBAeducation #MBAworld #MBAcommunity #MBAcareer #MBAexperience #MBAalumni #MBAjobs #MBAinternship #MBAstudents #MBAgraduates #MBAleaders #MBAentrepreneurs #MBAinsights #MBAgoals #MBAstrategy #MBAachievement #MBAculture #MBAworklife #MBAstudyabroad #MBAinternational #MBAinnovation #MBAcurriculum #MBAresearch #MBAindustry #MBAglobal #MBAemergingmarkets #MBAtechnology #MBAanalytics #MBAfinance #MBAconsulting #MBAmarketing #MBAstrategy #MBAleadership #MBAteamwork #MBAcommunication #MBAethics #MBAcareerdevelopment #MBAinterviews #MBAalumniassociation #MBAprofessionaldevelopment #MBAcareeradvancement #MBAjobsearch #MBAresume

Why Using A.I. to Write Your Personal Statement is a Bad Idea, Part 2

Colleges and universities are freaking out because students are beginning to use ChatGPT to do their academic work. A recent poll of Stanford students found that 10% used it to create homework that they turned in without additional alteration. Now, many people are turning to ChatGPT to craft their personal statements.

This is a mistake.

@gurufi_admissions

OpenAI’s #ChatGPT is an exciting new technology, but it’s not ready to write your #personalstatement … yet. The results are, frankly, boring. #MBA

♬ original sound – Gurufi

OpenAI’s ChatGPT can produce content that is grammatically, syntactically, and structurally sound. BUT, writing a personal statement isn’t a grammar lesson or purely an exercise in basic composition. In short, it needs a human touch and a level of understanding about you, as an applicant, that at present, an AI cannot reproduce. Moreover, personal statements are meant to demonstrate your character, capabilities, and experiences. This implies that they must be particular to you and distinctive. In your voice, from your mind, and reflective of your thoughts and values. Although ChatGPT can create material of a high caliber, it is unable to give it your voice and viewpoint, which is a crucial component of a personal statement.

Second, there are ethical issues with writing your personal statement utilizing ChatGPT. This is an understatement. It is dishonest to have a language model write your personal statement, and if you’re discovered you risk that school telling other schools you’ve applied to. As this video makes plain, schools are investing in high-quality AI-detection software and they are already using them in admissions departments.

Finally, utilizing ChatGPT to draft your personal statement involves some practical issues. Although it might save you time, careful thinking and introspection are still necessary. To create a powerful personal statement, you must reflect deeply on your goals, interests, and accomplishments. If you rely on a computer to do this job for you, your essay can end up being less strong and persuasive.

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

#personalstatementtips, #collegeadmissions, #writingtips, #collegeapplication, #collegeessay, #collegeprep, #writingadvice, #studentlife, #highschool, #education, #collegebound, #admissionessay, #studenttips, #studygram, #collegeadmissiontips, #writingcommunity, #success, #collegeadvice, #applicationessay, #motivation, #writingprocess, #personaldevelopment, #admissions, #writinghelp, and #applicationprocess.

DON’T Use ChatGPT to Write Your Personal Statement

Colleges and universities are freaking out because students are beginning to use ChatGPT to do their academic work. A recent poll of Stanford students found that 10% used it to create homework that they turned in without additional alteration. Now, many people are turning to ChatGPT to craft their personal statements.

This is a mistake.

 

@gurufi_admissions

ChatGPT’s #OpenAI has been in the news, and Admissions Committees are freaking out! Here’s why you should NOT use it to write your #personalstatement

♬ original sound – Gurufi

 

OpenAI’s ChatGPT can produce content that is grammatically, syntactically, and structurally sound. BUT, writing a personal statement isn’t a grammar lesson or purely an exercise in basic composition. In short, it needs a human touch and a level of understanding about you, as an applicant, that at present, an AI cannot reproduce. Moreover, personal statements are meant to demonstrate your character, capabilities, and experiences. This implies that they must be particular to you and distinctive. In your voice, from your mind, and reflective of your thoughts and values. Although ChatGPT can create material of a high caliber, it is unable to give it your voice and viewpoint, which is a crucial component of a personal statement.

Second, there are ethical issues with writing your personal statement utilizing ChatGPT. This is an understatement. It is dishonest to have a language model write your personal statement, and if you’re discovered you risk that school telling other schools you’ve applied to. As this video makes plain, schools are investing in high-quality AI-detection software and they are already using them in admissions departments.

Finally, utilizing ChatGPT to draft your personal statement involves some practical issues. Although it might save you time, careful thinking and introspection are still necessary. To create a powerful personal statement, you must reflect deeply on your goals, interests, and accomplishments. If you rely on a computer to do this job for you, your essay can end up being less strong and persuasive.

 

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

#personalstatementtips, #collegeadmissions, #writingtips, #collegeapplication, #collegeessay, #collegeprep, #writingadvice, #studentlife, #highschool, #education, #collegebound, #admissionessay, #studenttips, #studygram, #collegeadmissiontips, #writingcommunity, #success, #collegeadvice, #applicationessay, #motivation, #writingprocess, #personaldevelopment, #admissions, #writinghelp, and #applicationprocess.

Tips for Your Medical School Secondary Applications

Strategies for medical school secondary applications
Med school secondary applications should emphasize school fit

With your MCAT, personal statement, Work & Activities, and letters of recommendation all lined up, it’s time to start on your secondary application essays. Here are eleven tips for getting the most from your secondary essays.

  1. Get a head start. Your calendar is going to get pretty crowded, so begin as early as you can. Fortunately, most schools use the same essay from year to year, so even if you’ve not yet received the prompts, you can at least begin some light brainstorming, outlining, and rough-draft writing for the secondary essays you anticipate getting.
  2. View your secondaries as complementary. Think of your application holistically. Your personal statement provides your core theme and depth on a few moments and accomplishments. Your Work & Activities provide breadth and some additional depth on a few “most significant” items. Then, your secondaries fill out the application while emphasizing how your strengths, interests, and background align with what the school offers and values. As such, don’t use these secondaries to repeat information at length that you’ve already covered well elsewhere.
  3. Carefully follow the directions. Be careful to follow the medical school’s word restrictions, formatting specifications, and any other instructions.
  4. Create unique essays for every school. I know, you’re going to writing A TON of essays. And, you can repurpose some text where it makes sense. But, don’t shoehorn text into an essay that doesn’t quite fit just because you want to avoid some work. The main idea behind a secondary essay is to focus on aligning your strengths as an applicant with the school’s culture and values. This requires customization. Find out the aims and values of the medical schools to which you are applying, and then use your essays to show how you share those ideals.
  5. Provide concrete instances to support your arguments. Use particular stories and examples to explain your experiences and accomplishments rather than making generalizations. Your essay will become more interesting and memorable as a result.
  6. Steer clear of clichés and overused words. Avoid using overused words and clichés in your writings since they may make them look generic. Your essays should be distinctive and genuine.
  7. Carefully proofread and edit. To guarantee that your writings are devoid of typos, grammatical errors, and other faults, be sure you proofread and edit them thoroughly. You should be just as fussy and meticulous about your secondary essays as you were about your primary AMCAS essay.
  8. Show, don’t tell. To demonstrate your experiences and accomplishments rather than merely recounting them, use vivid language and specific facts. This can make your writing more compelling and interesting.
  9. Be true to yourself. Write about subjects that are personal and significant to you since medical schools are seeking applicants who are real and authentic.
  10. Write with clarity and conciseness. Be as plain and succinct as you can in your writing, and avoid using jargon or too complicated terminology. And be sure to end your essay by returning to your introduction.
  11. Request input from others. Think about inviting dependable mentors, family members, or friends to read and comment on your essays. This might assist you in identifying areas for development and ensuring the strongest possible essays. BUT, make sure that you are thoughtful and assertive in weighing every piece of advice.

 

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top medical schools. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

 

References:

Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). “Writing Your AMCAS Personal Comments Essay.” https://students-residents.aamc.org/applying-medical-school/article/writing-your-amcas-personal-comments-essay/

 

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