Tag: academic consulting

Securing Letters of Recommendation as an International Applicant

A group of diverse international students holding academic documents, including diplomas and recommendation letters, stands in front of an abstract globe symbolizing global education. The background features subtle university symbols, representing the challenges of securing letters of recommendation for graduate school as international applicants.
International Applicants Have Special Challenges When It Comes to Letters of Rec

Securing a strong letter of recommendation is a crucial part of your graduate school application. Having a personal, third-party assessment of you provides depth to your application and a more granular look at who you are and what your strengths and weaknesses are. In the 15+ years we’ve worked with graduate school applicants, we have revised scores of letters of recommendation.

Though letters of recommendation are pretty standard globally, international applicants face particular challenges in this process, especially when your recommenders are not familiar with the expectations of U.S. graduate schools or do not speak or write English.

This guide offers advice on requesting and obtaining compelling letters of recommendation from professors or employers in your home country.

Selecting the Right Recommenders

Choosing the right recommenders is the first step in obtaining solid letters of recommendation that move the needle on your application. Here are some tips to help you select the most suitable individuals:

1. Choose Individuals Who Know You Well

This is the most important thing. More important than getting a big name is finding somebody who can speak with specificity about you, your strengths, and what you’ve accomplished. In many countries, particularly in Asia, more weight is perhaps placed in the name and title of the recommender, but that’s not really the case in America. The content of the letter is far more important. Having a pro forma, cliché, and short letter from a big name won’t usually help you as much as a thoughtful, in-depth letter featuring examples from somebody who knows you better but is perhaps not well-known or doesn’t have a fancy rank.

  1. Prioritize Academic Recommenders

Whether applying to grad school or seeking employment, it’s usually a good idea to find somebody whose relationship to you most closely aligns with the kind of thing you’re aspiring to join. In other words, if you’re looking to pursue a BioChem PhD, the head of the lab you worked in would be great. Similarly, if you’re looking to complete a History Ph.D. have a history professor who knows you well write it. In short, if you are applying for an academic program, prioritize professors who have taught you in relevant subjects or supervised your research projects. Of course, most schools require three recommendations, so reserving one of those for a professional recommender who knows you well isn’t necessarily a bad idea. BUT, make sure you have the most relevant bases covered.

3. Consider Professional Recommenders

Building on the above point, if you have significant work experience, consider asking employers or colleagues who can provide insights into your professional skills and accomplishments. The test should be, “can this person talk in depth about what I bring to the table?” If so, then when you speak to them, perhaps highlight some skills or accomplishments that they would know about that align with how you’re pitching yourself in your application.

4. Ensure Recommenders Are Respectable
All things being equal, having an impressive recommender is better than an unknown one, BUT note point #1 above. Having read letters from impressive people who didn’t actually know the candidate (or worse, didn’t think much of them), it’s obvious when you’re just getting a pro forma letter that’s not really substantive.

How You Can Help

  1. Follow their lead

The first thing to keep in mind is that you’re asking somebody to do you a favor. So, whatever help they ask for, or whatever process they prefer, it’s up to you to accommodate them. When I was a university professor, I probably wrote 100 letters of rec, so I was pretty familiar with all the different processes and was fine navigating things myself. I had questions I would ask, but didn’t need much help; it was part of my job, so I did it. Not everybody has this attitude and not everybody feels comfortable with their writing. Many times your recommenders will ask you to either create for them an outline or even a full draft. Ethically, they should at least read whatever letter they sign their name to so that they can plausibly say it represents their ideas. But, remember that some people want more help, others less. Conform to their requests when it’s ethical to do so.

  1. Use language translation services

Many people applying to American schools from overseas will want recommenders who are not English speakers to write their letters. That’s fine and a common thing. There are multiple ways do this. You can have them write the letter and then either you translate it (honestly, of course) or you pay for a translation service to do it for you. Or, you can get them to provide you an outline and you write it for them.

If you send a translated letter, some people like to add a note that says something like, “translated from Chinese by XYZ translation service.” You can attach the original if you want; doing so can help to ensure that what’s translated is honest.

Either way, we live in a highly globalized world now, so it’s not shocking that your recommenders don’t speak English.

  1. Ask Early

Reach out to potential recommenders well in advance, ideally at least two months before the application deadline. I would consider two weeks the minimum. This gives them ample time to write a thoughtful letter. Anything shorter than that should begin with an apology.

  1. Explain the Purpose

Clearly explain why you need the letter and the significance of the recommendation in the context of your application. Provide details about the program you are applying to and why you have chosen them as a recommender.

  1. Provide Necessary Information

Supply your recommenders with all the necessary information to write a strong letter. This includes your resume/CV, personal statement, transcripts, and any specific points you would like them to address.

  1. Ask them explicitly, “Can you write me a strong letter?”

As a university professor, I always viewed writing letters of recommendation as part of my job. If you took my class, I would write you one. BUT, I wouldn’t necessarily write you a strong one. I always had a frank conversation with students and would say something like, “Jane, you got a B- in my class, so this letter would be pretty mediocre.” When you ask for a STRONG letter, that allows the writer to let you know that maybe you’re just going to get a bare-bones mediocre letter… so perhaps ask somebody else.

  1. Offer to Discuss in Person

If possible, arrange a meeting or a call to discuss your application and how their recommendation can best support your candidacy.

  1. Be Respectful and Grateful

Acknowledge that writing a recommendation letter is a favor and express your gratitude for their time and effort.

Helping Your Recommenders Write Strong Letters

While your recommenders will ultimately write the letters, you can provide support to ensure they highlight your strengths effectively:

1. Provide Specific Examples
Share specific examples of your achievements and experiences that you would like them to mention. These examples help make the letter more concrete and impactful.

2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Qualities
Emphasize the skills and qualities that are most relevant to the program you are applying to, and ask your recommenders to focus on these aspects.

3. Clarify the Format and Submission Process
Inform your recommenders about the preferred format for the letter and the submission process. Some programs may have specific forms or online portals for submitting recommendations.

4. Remind Them of Deadlines
Politely remind your recommenders of the submission deadlines to ensure the letters are sent on time.

  1. Thank Them Sincerely
    – Once the letters have been submitted, send a heartfelt thank you note to express your appreciation for their support.

6. Update Them on Your Progress
Keep your recommenders informed about the outcome of your applications. They will be interested to know where you have been accepted and your future plans.

Securing strong letters of recommendation is a vital component of your graduate school application. By carefully selecting your recommenders, effectively communicating your needs, and supporting them in writing compelling letters, you can enhance your chances of being admitted to your desired program. Remember to show appreciation for their time and effort, as their endorsement is a valuable part of your academic and professional journey.

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.

Ten Tips for Your Grad School Writing Sample

Colorful cartoon of students working on their graduate school writing samples in a cozy study space with the help of an experienced editor from Gurufi. The students are smiling and focused, surrounded by books, laptops, and coffee cups, while the friendly editor offers guidance. Text overlay: 'Refine Your Writing Sample with Gurufi – Your Path to Graduate School Success!
Your writing sample is a central part of your application… so you better get it right!
Many graduate programs, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, request that applicants submit a writing sample. At Gurufi, our experienced editor have helped scores of successful applicants refine their writing samples and earn admission to top schools. Here we go over ten common questions that people have about writing samples and provide ideas for how you can make this a strength of your application.

Overview:

Graduate school writing samples are an integral part of many applications, providing a window into your academic abilities, research skills, and potential for success in a rigorous academic environment. In this blog post, we address ten common questions about graduate school writing samples, offering guidance on how to select, craft, and present a strong sample that enhances your application.

1. What is the purpose of a graduate school writing sample?

The purpose of a graduate school writing sample is to demonstrate your writing ability, analytical skills, and readiness for graduate-level work. It allows the admissions committee to assess your capacity to engage with complex ideas, conduct thorough research, and communicate your findings effectively. The writing sample provides a concrete example of your academic capabilities and helps the committee determine if you are well-suited for the demands of their program and have sophisticated insights into the kind of complex issues that people engage with, especially within Ph.D. programs.

2. How do I choose the best writing sample for my graduate school application?

In short, you need to pick a writing sample that is germane, excellent, polished, and ideally is also representative of the kind of work you aspire to do. Showcase your strengths. To this end, consider the following tips:
1. **Relevance:** Choose a sample that is relevant to the field of study you are applying for. This demonstrates your knowledge and interest in the subject area. Even if you wrote an awesome paper for your American History class, that might not be the best choice for a Sociology graduate program.
2. **Quality:** Select a well-written piece that reflects your best work. Ensure it is free of errors and well-organized. Importantly, even if you got strong marks on the essay, you should spend a week or two refining it and revising it. Perhaps even think about tweaking it to align perfectly with the school you’re submitting it to and the strengths of that program.
3. **Length:** Follow the program’s guidelines regarding the length of the writing sample. If no guidelines are provided, a typical length is 10-20 pages.
4. **Originality:** Choose a piece that highlights your original thinking and research skills. This could be a research paper, a thesis chapter, or a critical essay.

3. What should I include in the introduction of my writing sample?

First, remember that if you are choosing a topic that’s germane to the field you’re applying to, you can expect for your reader to be quite familiar with the core ideas. That said, it would be helpful to include the prompt / assignment description if there is one. Otherwise, the writing should speak for itself as a coherent and internally consistent document, so the things that make a strong introduction in any essay apply to this one.

The introduction of your writing sample should provide a clear and concise overview of the topic, the research question or thesis, and the significance of your work. It should set the context for your research and outline the structure of the paper. The introduction should engage the reader and provide a roadmap for what to expect in the rest of the document.

4. How can I demonstrate my research skills in my writing sample?

To demonstrate your research skills, ensure your writing sample includes a well-defined research question or thesis, a comprehensive literature review, and (if relevant) a robust methodology section. Use credible sources and provide proper citations to support your arguments. Present your findings clearly and analyze the data effectively. Highlight your ability to synthesize information and draw insightful conclusions from your research.

It’s a good idea to talk to the professor for whom you originally wrote the paper and ask them for additional input on how they can strengthen the text for this particular purpose and school. Think about additional research you can do, if necessary, to demonstrate knowledge of the field.

5. What are common mistakes to avoid in a graduate school writing sample?

Common mistakes to avoid in a graduate school writing sample include:
1. **Poor Organization:** Ensure your paper is well-structured with clear headings and logical flow.
2. **Weak Thesis:** Present a strong and focused thesis or research question.
3. **Insufficient Analysis:** Provide thorough analysis and avoid simply summarizing sources.
4. **Lack of Clarity:** Write clearly and concisely, avoiding jargon and overly complex sentences.
5. **Grammatical Errors:** Proofread your sample multiple times to eliminate any spelling or grammatical errors. This really should not happen. For a paper of this importance, you should go over it a dozen or more times, looking for any errors.

6. How long should my graduate school writing sample be?

Most applications will specify a length. The length of your graduate school writing sample should follow the guidelines provided by the program you are applying to. If no specific length is mentioned, a typical writing sample ranges from 10 to 20 pages. Ensure that the sample is long enough to demonstrate your ability to conduct in-depth research and analysis, but not so long that it overwhelms the reader. Quality is more important than quantity, so focus on presenting a well-written and cohesive piece.

If your best writing came in a 60-page thesis, for instance, then think about whether your best approach is to reduce that down to 20 pages or whether you should select an excellent 20-page representative section. Ideally that section would be relatively self-sustaining, perhaps with a page or so of explanation that it was taken from a larger text for which you provide sufficient context and explanation.

7. How can I make my writing sample stand out?

To make your writing sample stand out, focus on the following aspects:
1. **Originality:** Present original ideas and perspectives that demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills.
2. **Clarity:** Write clearly and concisely, ensuring your arguments are easy to follow.
3. **Relevance:** Choose a topic that is relevant to your field of study and showcases your expertise.
4. **Analysis:** Provide thorough and insightful analysis that goes beyond surface-level observations.
5. **Professionalism:** Ensure your sample is polished, well-formatted, and free of errors.

8. What role does the writing sample play in the admissions process?

The writing sample plays a crucial role in the admissions process as it provides tangible evidence of your academic abilities and potential for success in graduate school. It allows the admissions committee to evaluate your writing skills, research capabilities, and ability to engage with complex topics. A strong writing sample can significantly enhance your application by demonstrating your readiness for graduate-level work and your fit for the program.

In many programs, the writing sample determines which professor reviews your application, so be sure to account for that in terms of how you frame your admissions strategy.

9. How should I format my graduate school writing sample?

Personally, I don’t think this one matters much. As long as your formatting is clean and consistent, you should be fine. That said, some people believe that you should format your graduate school writing sample following academic standards and any specific guidelines provided by the program. Here are some general tips:
1. **Font and Spacing:** Use a standard font such as Times New Roman, 12-point size, and double-spacing.
2. **Margins:** Use 1-inch margins on all sides.
3. **Headings:** Use clear headings and subheadings to organize your paper.
4. **Citations:** Follow a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) and include a bibliography or reference list.
5. **Title Page:** Include a title page with your name, the title of the paper, and any other required information.

10. How do I address feedback and revisions in my writing sample?

Addressing feedback and revisions is an important part of preparing a strong writing sample. Here’s how to approach it:
1. **Seek Feedback Early:** Share your draft with professors, mentors, or peers to get constructive feedback.
2. **Be Open to Criticism:** Accept feedback with an open mind and consider how it can improve your work.
3. **Revise Thoroughly:** Make necessary revisions to strengthen your arguments, clarify your writing, and correct any errors.
4. **Proofread Again:** After revising, proofread your sample multiple times to ensure it is polished and error-free.

Conclusion

A well-crafted graduate school writing sample is a key component of your application, showcasing your academic abilities and research skills. By addressing these common questions and incorporating the advice provided, you can select and prepare a writing sample that effectively demonstrates your potential for success in graduate school. Remember to be thoughtful, thorough, and reflective in your writing, and you will create a compelling sample that enhances your application.

For more help with your writing sample, CV, or 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.

Dos and Don’ts of Graduate School Applications

Colorful cartoon of a hopeful graduate school applicant at a desk, surrounded by thought bubbles depicting their journey, meeting with professors, library research, future career aspirations, considerations of finances, and overall happiness
Embark on your graduate school journey with clarity and purpose. This vibrant cartoon captures the essential steps and considerations every prospective student should think about.

         After nearly 20 years of helping people get into the graduate schools of their dreams, I have a clear sense of what works and doesn’t. Since most graduate programs open their admissions portals in the fall, if you’re reading this now (end of April), that means you’re likely at the very start of your journey to graduate school, so here are some tips.

         For many people, graduate school is the final step before embarking on a lifelong career. As a result, choosing the correct graduate school should be something you take very seriously. Keep these dos and don’ts in mind as you begin your search to help you make the right choice:

DO start your search early. Finding the right graduate school takes time and consideration. You’ll want to know the program you’ll be pursuing, the curriculum track that interests you the most, and the type of options each school has available.

DON’T choose a school based on name or ranking alone. The further along you get in your career, the more you’ll realize that if you’re not getting the education and guidance you actually need for success in your career, the name won’t make a difference. And five years after you graduate, nobody will care where you went. They’ll only care what you know how to do.

DO visit the schools in which you’re interested. Walk the campus, talk to professors, talk to the career placement office, and talk to current graduate students. Often LinkedIn can be an excellent way to connect with current and former students to ask them a few questions. Find out the types of jobs students are taking after graduating, see how invested the professors seem in their students’ futures, and test the responsiveness of the career services office to see if they’ll be an asset or a hindrance.

DON’T limit your choices too much. It’s important to cast a wide net when applying to schools. Especially at the start of the process. In addition to the schools that seem like perfect fits, pick a safety school or two just in case, as well as one or two schools that may seem completely out of reach given your scores and accomplishments.

DO research your desired industry. Find out what factors they consider when they hire out of school. What makes someone a good candidate for employment? What do they value, and what do they scoff at? Figuring it out from the perspective of your ultimate career will help you home in on a school that is right for you.

DON’T blitz apply to every program out there. While this seems like it might be a good solution, not only is it financially irresponsible, it’s also likely to hurt your chances. Instead of having the time to focus on perfecting the application and personalizing the essays for 4-6 schools, you’ll be pressed for time and likely to submit sub-par applications across the board. Remember, your personal statement for each respective school will need a fair amount of customization, which entails research, outlining, writing, and revising, so don’t overburden yourself to the point that you cannot complete all your applications in a way that makes your candidacy shine.

While the rank and reputation of a graduate school seem like the only reason to choose it, experts in every field will tell you that you’ll experience more success in life and your career if you choose a program that actually fits your needs. Make the effort to do your research and you’ll be rewarded in the long term.

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.

Eight Tips for Starting Your MBA Application

It’s spring, so MBA applicants looking to submit in R1 2024 have begun the process of building their applications. At Gurufi, we’ve helped thousands of applicants earn admission to their dream schools, so we understand not just the process, but the mindset and strategy, needed to earn admission into top MBA programs.

In this video, we break down some early tips for thinking about your MBA application.

Starting your MBA application journey can be both exhilarating and daunting. With the aim of demystifying this process, we’ve compiled a video with eight essential tips to help you navigate the complexities and position yourself for success. Here, we distill those insights into a comprehensive guide for prospective MBA candidates.

  1. Dream Realistically Big

Your personal statement is your chance to shine, to showcase your aspirations and dreams. But it’s crucial to balance ambition with realism. Reflect on your experiences and achievements to gauge the scale of your dreams. Your aspirations should be a natural extension of your past successes, demonstrating potential growth rather than an implausible leap.

 

  1. The Power of Elegance in Writing

For STEM applicants, and indeed all applicants, the quality of your writing is as crucial as your quantitative skills. Strive for writing that is lean, direct, and impactful, without unnecessary embellishments. Your narrative should be clear, concise, and compelling, ensuring your ideas resonate powerfully with the admissions committee.

 

  1. Listen to Your Intuition

Choosing between multiple MBA offers can be overwhelming. Trust your gut instincts—they’re often your subconscious synthesizing information faster than you can consciously. Consider not just the prestige of the program but where you feel you’ll truly thrive, as happiness and fit are paramount for success.

 

  1. Focus on the Future

While your past achievements are important, your personal statement should primarily be forward-looking. Describe your experiences and current activities in a way that convincingly presents your envisioned future as attainable and aligned with your identity, skills, and accomplishments.

 

  1. Thrive, Don’t Just Survive

An MBA should not be viewed merely as a stepping stone, but as a valuable phase of your life where you should thrive and find joy. The right program for you is one that not only advances your career but also enriches you personally and intellectually.

 

  1. To Hire or Not to Hire Help

The decision to seek professional assistance for your MBA application depends on your confidence in your writing and the strength of your support network. An expert’s perspective can provide valuable insights and highlight your strengths effectively, especially if you’re unsure about your narrative skills.

 

  1. Consider the ROI

Conducting a Return on Investment (ROI) analysis helps quantify the financial implications of pursuing an MBA. Consider the cost of the program against potential earnings post-graduation to understand the financial commitment and its impact on your future.

 

  1. Plan and Reflect Early

Start preparing for your application well in advance. While focusing on standardized tests, also begin reflecting on potential essay topics. Keep a notebook for spontaneous ideas related to your personal statement, allowing your subconscious to mull over the prompts and enrich your narrative.

In conclusion, applying for an MBA is a journey that requires thoughtful reflection, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of one’s goals and capabilities. By following these tips, you can craft an application that not only showcases your achievements and potential but also resonates with the ethos of your dream MBA program. Remember, the goal is not just to gain admission but to find a program where you will flourish and set the stage for a successful and fulfilling career.

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.