2nd year grad awarded in Materials Engineering!
Thought I'd add because I originally applied as a senior undergrad two years ago and didn't get it (rushed the app in a weekend and pulled a last-minute all-nighter like an idiot); applied again this year with my wits together (wrote the app over three weeks). Could be helpful for those reapplying.
Before/After review takaways --
2016: VG/VG, E/VG, VG/VG -- critiqued my proposal for lack of proper novelty/focus/scope, and stressed the need for dissemination (read: pubs) and outreach in the broader impacts section. Reviewers liked my international research and "impressive academic record."
Changes for reapplication -- emphasized publications and presentations, wrote a daring/cutting edge proposal (since now I know what I'm talking about), got up to my neck in volunteering and outreach and stuffed it all into my personal statement.
2018: E/E, E/E, VG/E -- no negative remarks. Reviewers liked my ~5 years of research (from freshman year), the fact that my proposal was in line with my expertise (aligned with my subfields and technical training), my international research, and my various leadership/volunteering engagements.
I also used bolding and underlining (the second time around) to make sure it was easy to skim. I would recommend this as well.
Congrats to all who got it, and good luck to those reapplying or seeking other fellowships!
