Summer Graduate Admissions Workshop (May 26 - May 30)

$575

Welcome to Modus Operandi Admissions' Graduate Admissions Workshop for people applying to research-oriented Master's and PhD programs. It focuses on components specific to graduate school admissions, such as crafting a strong research statement, identifying potential advisors, obtaining strong recommendation letters, preparing for interviews, and understanding funding structures.

Day 1: Foundation of the Graduate School Application Process

Goal: Introduce the graduate school admissions process, including an overview of components like CVs, research statements, and the importance of identifying fit with programs.

Module 1: Understanding Graduate School Admissions

Overview of application components: CVs, research statements, personal statements, writing samples, and recommendation letters.
Types of graduate programs: research-focused Master's vs. PhDs.
Understanding the purpose of a graduate degree and aligning goals with programs.

Module 2: Researching Programs and Identifying Fit

How to identify programs aligned with your research interests and career goals.
Exploring department websites, faculty research areas, and recent publications.
Using a spreadsheet to track program requirements, application deadlines, and faculty of interest (template provided).

Module 3: Preparing Your Academic CV

Key elements of an academic CV: education, research experience, publications, conference presentations, and skills.
Structuring your CV to highlight research experience and academic achievements
Tailoring your CV to each program.

Module 4: Strengthening Your Academic and Research Profile

Tips for developing skills through research assistantships, internships, and independent research projects.
Exploring opportunities for publications, conference presentations, and networking.

Module 5: Office Hours

Individual guidance on identifying programs, researching fit, and crafting an academic CV.

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Day 2: Crafting a Strong Research and Personal Narrative

Goal: Guide students in developing their research and personal statements, which are critical to graduate school applications.

Module 1: Crafting a Strong Research Statement

Purpose of the research statement: showcasing research experience, interests, and future goals.
Structuring the statement: introduction, current research, future plans, and fit with the program.
Exercises to brainstorm and outline key elements of your research statement.

Module 2: Personal Statements for Graduate School

Distinguishing personal statements from research statements.
Highlighting personal background, motivations, and academic journey.
Linking personal experiences to research goals and program fit.

Module 3: Writing Workshop: Research and Personal Statements

Analyzing successful examples of research and personal statements.
Strategies for revising drafts to ensure clarity, focus, and alignment with program priorities.

Module 4: Communicating with Potential Advisors

How to identify and reach out to potential advisors.
Crafting effective emails to professors: introducing yourself, expressing interest, and asking about opportunities.
Building professional relationships with faculty.

Module 5: Office Hours

Feedback on research and personal statement drafts, as well as guidance on contacting potential advisors.

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Day 3: Letters of Recommendation, Funding, and Standardized Tests

Goal: Help students understand how to secure strong letters of recommendation, navigate funding options, and prepare for standardized tests.

Module 1: Securing Strong Letters of Recommendation

Selecting recommenders: professors, research mentors, and supervisors.
Preparing recommenders with detailed information about your application and research goals.
How to tactfully follow up and ensure timely submission.

Module 2: Understanding Graduate School Funding

Types of funding: fellowships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and scholarships.
Funding structures for Master's vs. PhD programs.
Researching and applying for external fellowships (e.g., NSF GRFP, Ford Fellowship).

Module 3: Standardized Tests (GRE and Subject Tests)

Overview of the GRE (General Test and Subject Tests) and how they factor into applications.
Deciding whether to take the GRE based on program requirements (test-optional policies).
Study strategies, timelines, and resources for GRE preparation.

Module 4: Tracking Deadlines and Application Components with a Spreadsheet

Using the provided spreadsheet to manage deadlines, recommendation letters, and application tasks.
Keeping track of fellowship deadlines and funding requirements.

Module 5: Office Hours

Guidance on selecting recommenders, GRE planning, and understanding funding options.

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Day 4: Preparing for Interviews and Evaluating Programs

Goal: Prepare students for graduate program interviews and equip them with tools to evaluate programs for the best fit.

Module 1: Preparing for Graduate School Interviews

Types of interviews: faculty interviews, group interviews, and campus visits.
Common questions asked in graduate school interviews.
Preparing your own questions to evaluate program fit.

Module 2: Demonstrating Research and Academic Potential During Interviews

How to discuss your research clearly and confidently.
Strategies for talking about your future research plans and collaboration potential.
Tips for articulating alignment with faculty and department strengths.

Module 3: Evaluating Programs and Offers of Admission

Factors to consider: research fit, funding, program culture, location, and mentorship opportunities.
Comparing offers and negotiating funding or other support.
Understanding timelines for making decisions.

Module 4: Understanding University Rankings and Reputation in Research

How rankings differ for graduate programs and fields of study.
Weighing program prestige vs. faculty fit and resources.
Researching department-specific metrics like publications, grants, and alumni outcomes.

Module 5: Office Hours

Personalized guidance on interview preparation and evaluating programs.

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Day 5: Finalizing Applications, Networking, and Next Steps

Goal: Help students finalize their applications, leverage networking opportunities, and prepare for the transition to graduate school.

Module 1: Finalizing Your Application Materials

Reviewing all components: CV, research statement, personal statement, and writing sample.
Using the spreadsheet to ensure all tasks are completed and deadlines are met.

Module 2: Networking and Professional Development

Leveraging academic conferences, workshops, and webinars for networking opportunities.
Using LinkedIn and professional networks to connect with peers and faculty.
Maintaining professional communication with potential advisors and admissions committees.

Module 3: Building a Research Portfolio

Organizing research papers, posters, and presentations into a cohesive portfolio.
How to showcase your research accomplishments online (e.g., personal websites, GitHub for coding projects).

Module 4: Q&A Panel with Current Graduate Students and Faculty

Insights from current graduate students and faculty about the admissions process, life in graduate school, and career trajectories.
Open discussion for students to ask questions about their specific concerns.

Module 5: Final Office Hours

Individual sessions to address last-minute questions, review application components, and discuss next steps.

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Additional Program Features

Spreadsheet: A tracking spreadsheet is provided to help students manage deadlines, tasks, and interactions with programs and advisors.
Materials and Homework: Templates for CVs, research statements, and emails to potential advisors; sample personal and research statements; and GRE study resources.
Office Hours Structure: Daily rotating 10-minute slots for personalized guidance.

This graduate school admissions prep program is tailored to help prospective Master's and PhD applicants navigate the unique requirements and nuances of the application process, emphasizing research, mentorship, and professional development.

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