Essay Topics for KSG/Berkeley MPP/MPA-ID Fall 2010

[dilwin]

Hi,

Would anyone know when the essay questions for Fall 2010 MPP/MPA-ID at KSG and Berkely will be posted? If the questions are not likely to change, I'd be grateful if someone can post questions from earlier years.

Thanks

[policy_applicant]

Berkeley didn't have an essay question this year. They decided to get rid of the requirement at the last minute. (I was visiting in late August and was apparently one of the first to find out, from someone in the admissions department.) I would assume they won't have an essay requirement for Fall 2010 applicants either.

I didn't apply to KSG, but I believe both Harvard and Princeton just had vague "policy memos," with no specific topic. Someone should confirm that with respect to KSG, though.

[traveler06]

Berkeley didn't have an essay question this year. They decided to get rid of the requirement at the last minute. (I was visiting in late August and was apparently one of the first to find out, from someone in the admissions department.) I would assume they won't have an essay requirement for Fall 2010 applicants either.

I didn't apply to KSG, but I believe both Harvard and Princeton just had vague "policy memos," with no specific topic. Someone should confirm that with respect to KSG, though.

Harvard and Princeton had fairly similar essays. Each asked for a personal statement and for a "policy memo" or to evaluate a policy issue. Additionally, Harvard asked for an essay about an experience where you exhibited leadership.

[dilwin]

Thanks very much for your replies.

How would Berkeley evaluate work-ex if there are no essays involved? I have an engineering background (BTech and MS in Computer Science) and I've worked for the last 5 years in the consulting field widely traveling in Latin America the last three years - which led to a desire to pursue a career in Public Policy. I was hoping to make that the center-piece of my pitch since I lack any background in public service or econ/history/policy coursework. I would appreciate your thoughts on my situation.

[policy_applicant]

Thanks very much for your replies.

How would Berkeley evaluate work-ex if there are no essays involved? I have an engineering background (BTech and MS in Computer Science) and I've worked for the last 5 years in the consulting field widely traveling in Latin America the last three years - which led to a desire to pursue a career in Public Policy. I was hoping to make that the center-piece of my pitch since I lack any background in public service or econ/history/policy coursework. I would appreciate your thoughts on my situation.

Sounds like a great backbone for your statement of purpose (which is required at all schools). The SOP is a great place to tie all your experience into a coherent narrative and let the schools know why you're pursuing the degree.