My Chances

[C_Dunn]

Hello,

Just like everybody else, I'd appreciate a little feedback on my chances at the afore mentioned International Affairs programs (SAIS, SIPA, Georgetown, American, LBJ). I applied to LBJ last year and did not make it. My scores were quite above the average, but everyone appeared to be about 5 years older than me. I might as well paraphrase my resume for your critiques.

Education:

BA Honors (2009), International Studies and French

• 3.79 GPA.

• Phi Beta Kappa Member

• Winner of Outstanding Delegation (Committee and Overall) at the 2009 National Model United Nations Conference in New York City.

• Winner of Outstanding Delegation (Committee and Overall) at the 2008 American Model United Nations Conference in Chicago.

• Participant in distinguished language program in Grenoble, France (fluent speaker).

• Recipient of esteemed European diploma : Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française B2.

• GRE 730Q/600V (Retaking soon)

Work Experience:

International Trade Assistant for U.S. Department of Commerce Export Assistance Center

• Helped domestic companies export internationally.

• Learned the insides of business both in the public and private sectors.

• Conducted intensive market research on foreign countries.

• Gained invaluable experience in professionalism and networking.

Congressional Intern for U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul

• Handled constituents’ concerns on a variety of topics ranging from immigration to veterans’ affairs.

• Aided the Congressman's work on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Homeland Security Committee’s Intelligence Subcommittee.

International Background:

• Grew up overseas (Father works in oil business)

• Lived in Saudi Arabia, England, Scotland, and France.

• Visited twenty-nine counties throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

• French (Fluent)

• Spanish (Intermediate)

• Some German and Arabic

I realize that my lack of experience might be my downfall. I've tried my best to find relevant work experience since graduation, but the economy has not made it easy for me. I am currently working in a law firm doing paralegal work, and I do part-time French interpretation for visiting patients in the Medical Center.

I appreciate any guidance or help you can offer. Give it to me straight. I need to know what I'm up against. You won't hurt my feelings. Thanks!

[riz1]

Superb academic record, appealing international background, unique experiences on Capitol Hill and with the DoC ... If all this held constant, and you had graduated  in 2006 or even 2007, you would probably have fewer barriers to admission.

However, unique and accomplished fresh graduates are accepted to the schools to which you're applying -- they're not just myths. Often, what will set them apart from older comparables isn't the GRE scores or GPA, but rather the subjective elements of the application, particularly the letters of recommendation and the all-important personal statement. Based on your post, we don't know what your field of study in grad school will be, and it's important that you articulate your goals and how your graduate education will advance those objectives. Younger applicants often are able to synthesize well their limited experience, tease out a theme or two, and expound considerably in the personal statement. Be sure to do the same -- it will help!

You are an otherwise strong candidate and would be a good fit at any of the schools on your list. Best of luck!

[f_man]

could you paste your statement of purpose please?

[riz1]

Maybe not your entire statement of purpose. Just tell us in less formal terms what you want to do professionally, and how your graduate studies will help you fulfill your goals.

[C_Dunn]

Thank you for your constructive input. You asked to know more about the nature of my ideal program. I want to concentrate in European Studies. I also want a program that encourages language acquisition. As I said above, I spent number of years living in Europe as a child, and returing to live and work Europe is a personal goal of mine. My principle point of interest in European Affairs is the growth and success of the European Union. The level of political, economic, linguistic and cultural integration fascinates me. In the future, my ideal job would be liaising between the US and the EU, whether it be through State or another agency or NGO. To summarize, I want to be a European expert. (Let me know if you need more information)

Question...I know from personal experience that a set career path in international affairs and its actual manifestation are basically unheard of. Would admissions appreciate an honest acknowlegement of this? Of course, I would then describe that I believe myself to have the flexibility to succeed in any international field. Or, does it want me to put a bull's eye on my dream job? Maybe middle ground?

Thanks.