Program Applied To (MPA, MPP, IR, etc.): MA in International Affairs
Schools Applied To: Johns Hopkins SAIS Europe, American SIS, GW Elliot School
Schools Admitted To: American SIS (still waiting on funding)
Schools Rejected From: None so far
Still Waiting: SAIS, GW Elliot School
Undergraduate Institution: Highly ranked private liberal arts school
Undergraduate GPA: 3.39 (Rough start to undergrad, averaged a 3.60 my last four semesters)
Undergraduate Major: International Affairs with a minor in Russian language.
GRE Quantitative/Verbal/AW Scores: None!
Years Out of Undergrad (if applicable): 1.5
Years of Work Experience: 1.5
Describe Relevant Work Experience: I work at a federal policy research firm, not related to international affairs at all but heavily focused on dissecting policy. Most of my time is spent dissecting COVID-19 policy and data. Interned at international affairs think tank during undergrad.
Strength of SOP (be honest, describe the process, etc): I thought they were pretty good! I had friends who were also Int'l Affairs majors review them and help me edit. I tailored each one to each specific program but they were all quite similar. SIS required 3 short essays, GW required one 500 word essay, SAIS required two 600 word essays (analytical essay and SOP). I spoke about my experience with COVID-19 data and how I would like to use my skills in an international setting.
Strength of LOR's (be honest, describe the process, etc): Strong, I used two professors who I worked with for 2+ years in undergrad. Both know me on a personal level and academic level.
Other: Happy with getting into American, they have a huge focus on professional opportunities which is what I'm after. I think SAIS Europe is a reach for me but you never know. I have already studied and lived in Bologna (where the first year of the program is), so I think that may benefit me in the long run. Think I have a good shot at GW since I got into American, those two schools are usually after the same students.