[Sociology Writing Sample & GRE Scores]

Does it matter how current or "sexy" the topic is in this case? Also, does it matter if the paper is more of a literature review than original field research? It seems to me the main point of the sample is to showcase one's writing ability, but perhaps there's more to it than that.

Hello Rogue,

As far as I know, the point is not to make it current or "sexy". It can be a research paper, a thesis, literature review or a field study but preferably not in a journalistic style of writing. They want to see how you analyze an issue/topic and how you express it through your writing. So your vocabulary is not what you are showcasing but how you organize the content of your essay and structure your argument. Most people submit papers that are of some relevance to the sub-field(s) they want to study. But for those who migrate between disciplines, I guess there are some relaxations. Confirm with them.

Also--and I apologize is this is a rather silly question--when a school requests a writing sample of a specific length (like 15-20) pages, should I assume this is double-spaced?

Not necessarily. It can be 1.5 or even 1. Depends on how long your paper is.

[How to be a competitive anthro applicant]

Thanks Sachi and Tistre for some great advice.

This is my round two of applying, and I've been talking to a lot of people, including directors at places that rejected me,

Round 2 for me too, I got no funding this time. I am considering re-applying to some depts I got rejected for. How advisable is that?

Rutgers, Brandeis and South Carolina have a good departmental focus on diaspora studies. Where else can I apply to?

[Sociology Writing Sample & GRE Scores]

I am having trouble myself trying to figure out what tier of schools I can get into with my scores.

Hi Astronautka,

I'm an international candidate too, hoping for a breakthrough somewhere.

GRE Scores can be compensated if you have a strong SOP and good writing sample(s). Of course good LORs too, but that's something which isn't really in my court. I know of someone who got 1100 in GRE but he had a good publications list and a strong statement. He got into a top school with full-funding.

I have low scores in Quant and writing..but don't want to retake the test. Thinking of strengthening the rest of the apps package instead.

Which area are you applying in, if I may ask?

[Reapplying - what are you doing differently?]

Hope all of us get through this time The rejects were certainly heartbreaking!

Will:

- rework on SOP

- have a good writing sample, a publication hopefully

- choose deptts carefully

How important is it to get in touch with the prof whom you are interested to work with? I was told that its good to get your CV or SOP read by them for their further suggestions. But how does one do that without sounding as if one is sucking up to them?

Also my GRE scores werent great esp Quant and writing. TOEFL was good enough, atleast to me 114/120

Cant think of retaking it. Quant isnt my strong area. Rather thinking of improving the rest of my application packet.