My reviews were all over the place, but judging from the comments they definitely all read the right application... G/VG, VG/E, E/E... Returning Civil Engineering Student... "Fellowship Awarded".
A few comments: I graduated with my master's in 2011 so I have a master's thesis and almost a decade of work experience under my belt all in the same field. I had 3 conference presentations during my working years, but none as a student. My research topic was really easy to tailor to the broader impacts section and my master's research was tangentially related to my work and future research so I was able to talk about that. I have been active in STEM outreach as a professional (scholarship boards, student outreach, and etc.). I got a lot of help from the writing center at my Master's institution (Also where I'm going for my PhD).
Takeaways/Lessons Learned for Future Applicants: 1) If you are a returning student don't be afraid to apply. What you have done in your professional life is likely to be more helpful than hurtful. 2) Broader Impacts of both your research and volunteering are weighted heavily as outlined by the solicitation. 3) I'm certain that they normalize the reviews or that G/VG would have sunk my application. 4) Get Help! Have as many people read your application and provide feedback as possible. 5) This isn't a total crapshoot (more effort into the application will better your odds but is certainly not a guarantee) but there is definitely some luck involved.
Congrats to all the selected and honorable mention applicants.
