CP writing sample for IR program?

[Coffee Candy]

I know this is a basic question, but I need some advice! I'll really appreicate your reply.

Actually, I'm interested in both CP and IR, so I am thinking of make two versions of SOPs -- one for CP and the other for IR.

But, it seems really difficult to prepare two writing sample for 2012 Fall application.

Do you think it is not a good idea to submit a CP writing sample for IR program? Is it better if the writing sample is direcly related to the field of study that you write about in your SOP?

[IRdreams]

So I would say send your strongest piece of political science writing that demonstrates original research. Make sure if it is a class paper then that it be a seminar style class paper. Best yet is to send a chapter out of a senior thesis. This is good for a couple of reasons. If you are applying to grad school, your thesis demonstrates commitment to a longer and original research project. You can usually tell a more convincing story about how what you want to work on in grad school extends from the work in the thesis. The fact that it is a big project demonstrates your commitment to the research process which is generally a long term commitment. You also usually developed some research skills during the thesis so you can highlight those skills in your SOP and your writing sample then backs up the claims made in the SOP creating a cohesive package.