Applying to SIPA? My tips for a strong application!

Applying to graduate school can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling work, family, and personal commitments. Don’t worry – I’m here to share a few tips that worked for me! 

Be Yourself! 

Your personal experiences, passions, and interests are what make your application stand out. SIPA values the unique perspective each student brings. Be confident and authentic when sharing your story. 

Start Early! 

I applied for the November early action deadline, and I started working on my application in July. Yes, July! It may sound early, but honestly, is there such a thing as being too prepared? Starting early gave me plenty of time to review, edit, and perfect my materials – and saved me a lot of last-minute stress. 

Lean on Your Mentors! 

Ask your mentors to review your application materials. Fresh eyes can offer valuable feedback and help you strengthen your story. 

Do Your Research! 

You’re already off to a great start by reading this blog. Dive into SIPA’s history, programs, courses, and professors. The strongest applications reflect a clear understanding of how SIPA aligns with your goals, including the specific courses you’re interested in and the professors you hope to learn from. 

Connect with SIPA Alumni! 

Don’t know any? That’s what LinkedIn is for! Don’t hesitate to reach out to alumni for informational interviews. It’s a great way to build connections, and they may even offer to review your application materials.  

Wishing you the best of luck as you take this exciting step toward SIPA! And, please familiarize yourself of upcoming admissions deadlines.