aileen

I mentioned my Ameri*Corps VISTA service in which I worked directly with persons at or below the poverty level, science events I have participated in that focused on serving children from disadvantaged backgrounds and of minority status, and work I have done (and will do) directly in the lab with similar populations. It helps that our lab participates very fully in REU programs that target disadvantaged and diverse populations because I will continue to work with them throughout my grad work. I also gave specific examples of the type of outreach I will do as a graduate student to continue working with the community on science-related topics - events, etc. I honestly, truly believe that weaving the broader impacts throughout my essays is what really got me the fellowship (in addition to them liking the research project and seeing that I have enough experience to carry it out, of course).

To access rating sheets, use the link and login information in the email you received. The other link isn't working for some reason. I just registered to give some hope to those who don't think they can win with so-so stats. GRE was 1220 (620 V, 600 Q, 5.0 analytical writing). GPA 3.78. BUT, I am an undergraduate who had 1.5 years of research experience when applying, non-traditional student, was an Ameri*Corps VISTA for two years, and really weaved the broader impacts through all of my essays. They LOVED that I was a VISTA and that I have done so much outreach already and had a good plan for outreach as a grad student. Ratings were (intellectual merit/ broader impacts): VG/VG, VG/E, G/E. (Also, I applied to Life Sciences, Neuroscience if that helps anyone.)