theadvancededit

Congrats! I think, given types of programs you're interested it, it only helps you more to put your pop mag article on your CV.

The "apply to lots of programs" rule only works if those programs you apply to are ones that are actually feasible. If you truly cannot see yourself at any other schools but those four, then there's no point in applying to any others. But if-- Zeus forbidding!-- you don't get into any of these four, what would your next logical step be? If "wishing you had a backup" is one of them, then maybe you should add to the list. However, if not, then you're better off saving the money from extra application fees.

An "unofficial" transcript may be overkill, but an addendum might work to elaborate on your attendance record, especially when 'sprinkled' through your official transcript like that.

It's also important to find out as early as possible whether that professor is easy to get in contact with, if at all. It would be a disaster if you waited even a week or so later to find out that the professor is, um... incommunicado most of the time.

You're welcome! It's definitely a good idea to talk to those professors beforehand. If you express your desire to work with them specifically, it can go over very well; it's not too early if you're genuinely interested in their research. However, just be mindful of seeming to just want an "in" for admissions; that can come off as being a little rude or even schlocky. But, again, if you approach them about their work and about wanting to be a part of their own research group, then you should be fine.

For your 'Works Cited' page, they should be in alphabetical order, as hard on the eyes as that would be. Re: differentiating between citations... I couldn't find the answer for you either. What you explained seems to work the best but, if that messes up your word count, perhaps maybe omitting "trans." after the first mention of each change in citation would help.

See if the university you're applying to will allow multiple samples to make up for the page count. If not, then perhaps expanding on another paper (ideally one that can be reviewed by the professor) might be a better option before enrolling in a full course and writing something completely new. The time involved could easily outweigh what could be spent revising/expanding on one you've already written.

If time allows, it wouldn't hurt to have a program-specific paragraph. Also, be careful of not running into the same problem before of running over the limit.

Maybe you should speak to your social work advisor; they should be able to point you in the right direction of what would be expected of you when you apply. Also, they should know of what writing services are available on campus. In terms of your personal statement itself, you should address what the question(s) are asking of you, but you can do so in a way that projects your own personality and experience. Given that you've been out of school for some time, you should definitely highlight how you have personally grown and matured while out of school and on the field. Schools are interested in your progression, as well as what you hope to bring to the school and to the field in the future. Think of your progression on the field thus far, and your goals-- you certainly throw in some anecdotes that you feel will exemplify this. Speaking to your advisor will help you with this, as well.

Well, first off, it depends on what you're hoping to get from reaching out to the professors. Are you hoping for some more insight into the program offered? Or, are you looking to state your intention of applying to their university? Whatever your reason is, your inquiry should highlight what that you find interesting about their work, and where your work relates to theirs. Don't write an SOP right away, but frame your inquiry to include what sort of help/guidance you're looking to get from them. Hope this helps you, and good luck!