GUIDE TO THE GRADUATE SCHOOL APPLICATION PROCESS

FOR CHICANO STUDIES UNDERGRADUATE AND MASTER’S STUDENTS

PREPARED BY THE CHICANO STUDIES GRADUATE COMMITTEE

APPLYING TO GRADUATE SCHOOL, Q & A (hyperlink)

SCHOLARSHIP, APPLICATION AND OTHER RESOURCES (hyperlink)

Applying to graduate school can seem like a daunting task. There are many tasks you have to perform before your applications are complete. The thing to remember is that the application process is already part of the graduate experience. Don’t let it intimidate you! The best advice we can give is to plan ahead as much as possible. Begin talking with your professors early about graduate programs. Most professors are happy to share their experiences with you. It can also be helpful if you know a group of students who are applying to graduate school. Set up meeting times where you can all get together to talk about your concerns and triumphs. The graduate application process is pretty standard so you can benefit from the social support of other students who are applying.

What do I need to go to graduate school?

· A desire to work

· An undergraduate degree or a degree forthcoming

· A proposed discipline in Chicano Studies we have students who attend graduate school in Chicano Studies, English, History, Sociology and Anthropology and Psychology.

· A 3.0 or better Grade Point Average (GPA). Remember if you are completing a master’s program in Chicano Studies or any other discipline you are likely to already have this requirement met since good academic standing requires a GPA of 3.0 at the graduate level.

How do I choose a graduate program?

There are many programs that teach a certain discipline in a different manner (see the list of Ph.D. Programs). It is important that you do your research about each program that you are interested in.

· You can easily go to the webpage of the department you are interested in applying.

· Look at the interest of the faculty. You can take it a step further by reading some of the publications of the faculty. Remember to notice which faculty are Emeritus (basically retired) or on sabbatical. If you are interested in working with these faculty members they may not be available for you to work with.

· It is important that you create a hierarchy that will help you in selecting which schools fit your goals and aspirations. Maybe you have specific professor that you want to work with or you have specific research that you want to do or participate in.

· Location is also something you need to consider. Many of the students here at CSULA want to stay in the local Los Angeles area. It is very, very important that you consider programs that may not be in California. There are excellent programs that may offer you very lucrative fellowships (money) for you to attend their programs. These are the types of things that will help you limit your program choices. If you do not want to be in the deep-south, do not apply there. However, if a good program exists down in Florida, you need to decide if the program outweighs being in the south.

How do I find out about the program?

Currently, the internet provides the best opportunity. You can also call the program and ask them to send materials to you. On the internet, it often takes playing with the site to figure out where to go. Each site is different (just like each program). Usually, the programs can be found in the “Academics” section. Department websites usually have links to the undergraduate program and the graduate program. If you like what you see, this may be a possible candidate for you. Remember that the webpage is a reflection of the department that you will be a part of if you choose to attend that program. If you find that you have a hard time navigating the page or find that the information is outdated this may mean many things. It could be that there is no webmaster to maintain the page or it can mean that that department is overloaded. It can also be a sign that the department is not highly receptive to student inquiries. Regardless of what it may be if you are truly interested in a program don’t give up looking for information because you can not readily access it. Be persistent, it will get you to the goal you want!

What is necessary to apply?

The requirements to apply to a graduate program depend on the specific program. Some programs require a higher GPA, while others require less. Some require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), while others do not. In general, most, if not all programs, require an application with essays. They will require transcripts from all colleges attended. Here is a list of things that may be included:

· Bachelors Degree awarded or forthcoming

· Application

· Essay(s)—usually some sort of statement of purpose

· Transcript(s) showing required courses taken

· Letters of Recommendation (usually 3)

· Application fee (depends on program)

· GRE (if applicable)

· GRE subject test(s) (if applicable)

· Research experience (if applicable)

Are the due dates important?

Very! Often programs will not consider you if you apply after the date. It is important to make sure everything gets there on time and that you double check that your application is complete. Remember, it is YOUR responsibility to make sure that the program has all of your materials. The thing to do is not argue about what is missing but send the information twice if necessary. Ultimately what is important is that you file is complete.

What are the essays asking me?

The essays for admission are not like the essays for your undergraduate courses. Since graduate school is more specialized, the essays are usually asking about why you are applying to this program, why you want to go into the field, what are your work and research desires and aspirations, and biographical statements. However, like the essays you have most likely written before, there is usually length limits (1000-2000 word count for example).

These essays give you the opportunity to describe your talents. Remember that all the individuals that are applying to graduate school stand out in some way. As a “shining star” among many equally talented candidates why should a program pick you and not others with similar credentials? This is not the time to be modest! It is the opportunity for you to describe all of the experience you have in the field. Everything counts so describe any publications you have, conferences you have presented in, lectures you have given, and awards you have received. Remember to also include a human aspect to your essay. This can be done in the form of talking about your community involvement, hobbies, hardships and/or talents. Admission committees see this as a favorable part of your essay since it gives them a sense of who you are. It also gives the committee an opportunity to see that you are capable of managing a graduate career while also managing your personal life. This is an important point that committees consider when they are investing a fellowship in you—they want to know that you can handle the stressors of graduate school and a personal life.

What is an electronic application form?

Many institutions are currently moving toward paperless communication. This being the case, many programs have complete online applications. The essays are submitted in text boxes that they provide and the applications are able to be typed on. They allow you to save and go back to it as many times as you need. In order to do this, a username and a password will be issued. It is a good idea for you to work on these essays in a separate document and cut and paste your completed document once you have thoroughly reviewed it. If you have the opportunity to have a professor review your essays please do. Professors can give you additional tips that you may not have thought about. Make sure you complete these essays with plenty of time since a professor may need at least a week to provide you with feedback.

What is the GRE? (link)

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that is given by paper copy about 4 times a year like the ACT and the SAT. However, many, if not most, schools offer the computerized version that may be offered every day. At the beginning of the test, they allow you to choose up to four schools, for free, to send your results. Any more schools can be sent the results for a small fee (around $5 to $8 dollars).

What is being tested in the GRE?

The GRE is testing on a Verbal test, Mathematical Test, and a Logic/Essay Test. Your verbal and Mathematical scores are out of 800. The higher scores will raise one’s chances of being admitted to a graduate program. (Note that this is not the only criterion for acceptance). Average acceptance scores are often given by the programs literature. The logic/essay portion is out of 6 and is graded by raters. One needs to attain a certain level to pass. Again, the higher the level, the better it will look to admission committees. If you feel you have received a low GRE score do not hesitate to apply to a program. Many programs do emphasize the GRE but the rest of your application is also an important factor. We also suggest that you mention a low GRE score in your essay and explain why this is not an accurate assessment of your ability to complete a graduate program.

Who do you contact for your letter of recommendation?

Most schools want at least three letters. These letters should be from professors who know what you are like and can speak well of your abilities. We also suggest if you are able to get additional letters send them in. It is never a bad idea to have letters that speak highly of you. The admissions committee does consider letters important. It also speaks to your ability to network with professors and your experience in an academic/professional setting. Don’t over do it…sending 10 letters is too much!

It is important to give the letter writers as much time as possible to write the letters. If not enough time is given, the letter might not get out to the schools by the deadline. If you know who will be writing your letters early, it is best to approach them with the information and any forms that they should fill out at least one month before the deadline, it is actually better to go 6 to 8 weeks before the due date if possible.

It is best that you provide your professors with all the documentation at once. This means your essay (statement of purpose) plus addressed envelopes with stamp included for each application. Remember to fill out as much of the paperwork as necessary so that your professor can concentrate on writing you a stellar letter rather than on filling in blanks on forms you did not complete. If you are applying to more than two schools it really does take your professors some time to complete these letters.

Often professors will want you to waive your rights to see the letter. This is common place and means that they can talk about you without fear of you being upset. There will often be a cover sheet that goes with each letter that will include the waiver and often ratings that the professor will give you. The majority of your letters should be professors, though professionals in the field can be used for one of your letters. Remember, if the person doesn’t like you or there have been problems in the past, do not use them for such an important task.

Should I contact the school?

Do you contact a job if you want to apply? Of course you do. The same goes for graduate programs. This is not just a fit for them, but it is a fit for you. You can, and should really consider, calling and speaking with the program chair. You may want to ask that current students to call you or arrange for a tour of the facility. Some departments reserve scholarships for potential students to come and visit their campus-- ask if this is possible with the programs you are highly interested in. It is important that you get the best picture possible. It also shows that you are willing to connect with a program and allows you to put your best foot forward. This is also important if you will have to move to a different state to attend graduate school. Make sure you ask questions about climate, social support organizations and climate. These will be issues that you will need to deal with as you move to the state in which you will be living in to attend graduate school. You can also ask for more information than what is on the website.

Should I contact professors?

This is particularly important for Ph.D. programs. It is good to research professors and find out where their research interests lie. In Ph.D. programs, you usually choose mentors and advisors. It is the aim that the advisors will have similar interests as you. It can be important to talk with that person and explain that you are a student and if he or she is taking new students and is interested in working with you. Not only can the professor help you with admission, be she/he can also give you some educational choices and direction. The bottom line is do not be afraid to contact professors. They are usually more than willing to talk with you. Remember that e-mail is not enough. If you are relying on e-mail you may wait too long or the professor may never receive your mail. Calling and talking to the professor is always the best option. Don’t think you are being a bother most professors like to know that a student is diligent and does not give up easily it speaks to your character.

Are there interviews?

More than likely you will have to have at least a telephone interview especially if you are being offered a fellowship. Many graduate programs require an interview for you to be accepted. If you are granted an interview, the school will tell you when they are hosting them. Many schools allow for phone interviews to be done for out-of-state individuals. Though this may not hurt your chances, it is best to see the facility for yourself. If at all possible, make the attempt to interview in person. A suit/business outfit is important to look your best and impress the interviewers. Often, the interview days will last half the day with several interviews and a tour involved.

I got accepted…now what?

It is important to let your first choice school know that you are planning on attending. This allows them to secure a space and oftentimes funding for you. If you do this, it is also important to let any schools who are currently considering you know that you will not be attending. This allows them to offer the place to someone else. If you are still holding out, make sure that you are aware of acceptance dates. Sometimes, you may need to decide on a school before you know if you have been accepted to another school. Sometimes you can negotiate the deadline to accept with a school but in general schools are very anxious to receive your decision. You have to remember that they have invested time and energy in you and most schools are likely to offer you a fellowship. Don’t keep a school waiting if you already know for certain you will not attend. This way the school can offer your slot to someone who is anxiously awaiting a decision. It is often the case that schools have an acceptance list and then a wait list. This may mean that you might receive an acceptance after a student has declined a spot. This is why it is important for you to keep in contact with the department. You can call the department secretary/administrative assistant and ask “what is the status of my application” more than likely they will have answers for you. The decision process will be exciting and may be disappointing. Remember the more schools you apply to the better the chances are that you will be accepted..

PH.D, PROGRAMS IN CHICANO STUDIES AND RELATED FIELDS

PH.D. CHICANO STUDIES

http://www.chicst.ucsb.edu/phd/index.shtml

PH.D. ETHNIC STUDIES & AMERICAN STUDIES

UC San Diego http://www.ethnicstudies.ucsd.edu/html/graduate_p.html

UC Berkeley http://ethnicstudies.berkeley.edu/graduate/

USC http://www.usc.edu/schools/college/ase/home/index.html

Washington State http://www.libarts.wsu.edu/amerst/graduate.html

LATINO STUDIES GRADUATE EMPHASIS

For Ph.D. students in traditional academic disciplines (e.g. History, Sociology, Psychology, English, Anthropology, etc.) who would like a concentration in Chicano/Latino Studies.

UC Santa Cruz http://lals.ucsc.edu/graduate_emphasis/

UC Irvine http://www.socsci.uci.edu/clstudies/grademphasis.html

UC Riverside http://www.ethnicstudies.ucr.edu/graduate/index.html

University of Illinois at Chicago

http://www.uic.edu/las/latamst/Academic%20Programs_files/graduate.htm

Association for Integrative Studies (interdisciplinary fields)

http://www.units.muohio.edu/aisorg/phd/graddirectoryintro.html

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Visit professional association websites for information on annual meetings, fellowships and current research. Professional meetings typically provide opportunities to meet and network with scholars working on Chicano/Latino issues throughout the country. You can also identify promising areas of research.

NACCS National Association of Chicana/Chicano Studies http://www.naccs.org/

MALCS Mujeres Activas en Letras y Cambio Social http://malcs.net/

ASA American Studies Association http://www.theasa.net/

NAES National Association for Ethnic Studies http://www.ethnicstudies.org/

SCHOLARSHIP, APPLICATION AND TESTING RESOURCES

· California Colleges website for $cholar$hip information

http://www.californiacolleges.edu/finaid/scholarship_search/default.asp

· Graduate Record Examinations www.gre.org Contact the Educational Testing Service (the people who create and administer the GRE) and request a GRE Registration Bulletin so you can register to take the exam as soon as possible.

· Free GRE Testing: Many resources available online, search “free GRE testing”

· PROJECT 1000: http://mati.eas.asu.edu:8421/p1000/

This is a nationally recognized program to assist underrepresented students in applying to graduate school, where you can apply to seven of the over 88 participating institutions with one application

SPECIAL FEATURES OF PROJECT 1000:
Bilingual (English/Spanish) academic advisors available to assist with the graduate school application process. An easy-to-use electronic application available at www.asu.edu/project1000 (see Project 1000 website for more info)

Student Eligibility - U.S. citizens or permanent residents underrepresented in U.S. Graduate Programs. Seeking: 1) Mexican American, Puerto Rican, Cuban American or other Latin American ethnic heritage; 2) African American; OR 3) Native American (including U.S. Pacific Islander).

Program Eligibility - Eligible fields within Project 1000 are those disciplines that require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or those programs that do not have an entrance exam requirement. Eligible programs include the arts and sciences, engineering, architecture and urban planning, library and information science, oceanography, public health, nursing, biomedical sciences, public policy, social work, theology, and most fields within education.

Professional programs that require standardized tests other than the GRE (e.g., business, law or medicine) do not participate in Project 1000.

For Teachers/Educators

· The Andover Academy Institute for Recruitment of Teachers http://www.andover.edu/irt/home.htm

Their website states: The Institute for Recruitment of Teachers aims to reduce over time the critical underrepresentation on the faculties of certain minority groups, as well as to address the attendant educational consequences of these disparities. Providing positive role models to youth, the institute serves the related goals of supporting school and campus environments. Each year, the institute supports throughout the graduate school application process outstanding college students and graduates from diverse backgrounds who are committed to these ideals

· UC Doctoral and Professional Degree Programs http://www.ucop.edu/gps/advanced.html System wide information on fellowships, internships and all programs.