If it matters I've taken the GRE a few times and I've gotten 5 on the writing, the most recent one though hasn't been put out. However, I think you're deserving of a 3.5-4. Argument <=3.5.
Pos: high level diction, decently strong intro (though it's vague)
Neg: You could cite examples, a simple example makes your point waaay better, i.e. point out an artist who is all about creative work and dumps on formal education. Minor spelling errors (riginess, freeding,...), multiple syntax problems/transitioning words (", however." not good at the end of a sentence) are not effectively used. Additionally, you make a rather poor attempt at discussing the other side, in particular, how it might not hold true. You simply state "The riginess [sic] of formal education institutions can stifle the creative spirit. But this does not have to be the case." You don't elaborate on an assertion, a rather big rhetorical mistake since understanding the other side of the issue is important.
The biggest problem with issue essay responses is avoiding the vague and dogmatic statements you want to assert as axioms. Rather, you should be entirely explicit when embodying your stance, use examples, weave ideas throughout the points, and don't ever spend time beating around the bush.
Argument essay.
This is actually my best subject, I've gotten numerous 6s on Princeton review's practice tests, and I've competed in many speech/writing competitions so I can help you out the most here.
Pos: You spot the problems, and seem to grasp how to explain them, ie. why they're wrong in making their assumptions.
Neg: Short intro, very meek way to begin an argument essay. You're better off approaching what overarching motif is plaguing the statement, and bring in an example of why it's no good, then say what you're going to address the problems, and assumptions, and what the IMPACT IS IF PROVEN UNWARRANTED (you did NOT do this). Moreover, don't even address the last statement as potentially true or false, and it's a great point to connect to reality (the recent decline in the economy is most likely the cause, and fitness levels will improve when the economy does.), here's my stab at it, took me 8 minutes to write this:
Considering the last statement in the prompt, we ought to consider the impact of a growing economy and the effect on its beneficiaries. In periods of economic growth, there is usually a low unemployment rate and high satisfaction rates among the general population—measured by the FED and by the American Consumer Index. What we can note is that there is no defined causal relation, but when people are employed it's more accurate to say they are more likely to afford (more) luxurious goods—gym memberships and healthier foods, for instance. To address the reverse, if the economy is in a recession or depression, people often cut their spending on everything (healthier food, gas, clothing, and all other expenses) and often experience anxiety and other upset mood states due to the general unease revolving around their job and job prospects which often correlate with unhealthier lifestyles. Perhaps, we could say that people are healthier during a growing economy due to the widespread benefits of a growing economy, more jobs, money, as well as a positive attitude that often accompanies a healthier lifestyle.
1.) Where do you see yourself in x amount of years?
- Even if they give you a specific number of years, make sure you describe where you see yourself both in the short-term span (this will show you are realistic) and in the long term span (this will show you have high-reaching goals.) You don't want to roll in there looking unrealistic, or like a slacker.
2.) Why do you pick this program?
- Pretty straight forward, just be honest. Pick specific things about the program that sets it apart from other programs. For example, "This program really stuck out to me b/c while it has great academics, it also has a lot more opportunities for practical experience than other programs out there."
3.) Why do you think you would be a good fit for the program?
- This is a chance to brag on yourself a bit. Also, let them know what makes you unique compared to the other hundreds of students applying. Tailor your talents to the specifics of the program.
My last piece of advise...don't be arrogant about it, but try to think along the lines of you are interviewing the school as well. You want to let the interviewer know that you want to make sure the school is the right fit for you. Do this by asking discriminating questions...what sets this school apart from other programs? How has this program evolved over the last 20 years in its field? What is this program doing to stay competitive? Some people might disagree, but I went into my interviews with the attitude of, look, I know my qualifications, and any school would be lucky to have me. I want to make sure they are worthy of my talents. I know it sounds arrogant, but it made me feel less nervous to look at it as if I was the one interviewing them. Be confident, but not arrogant. It is a thin line. My interviewers even mentioned that they found my confidence appealing. If you have faith in yourself, they will put their faith in you.
The worst thing you can do is go into an interview being unsure of yourself. My program did an interview weekend, where you were with other candidates the whole time. Some people can get intimidated, and get down on themselves when they hear other applications bragging about their amazing qualifications. Know that 1.) They are all embellishing and 2.) If they really were that amazing, they wouldn't feel the necessity to brag about it. They are only bragging b/c they know they are lacking. Just nod and smile.
Just know that you deserve the best education, because you are a talented, intelligent person, and you will rock the interview
