Week 3: Reading, Overview & Assignments

COLI 211z – Week 3

Reading Assignment:

Pierre Drieu la Rochelle – Will 'O The Wisp (e-text: http://www.mediafire.com/?y1dct2tg0jm)

Overview

Graduate School

All graduate programs will require a sample of your written work. And while some programs may instead require that you write essays on specified topics, a prepared writing sample would be greatly beneficial to supplement applications to such programs, even though it may not be required. Some programs may specify length and other requirements for your writing sample, what is important is that it be a sustained engagement with a relevant subject. As a general guideline, an essay of 10-20 pages would serve as a suitable writing sample. I suggest revising and polishing a previously written piece over writing an entirely new one.

In some fields, a writing sample is not required or appropriate – in these cases, a sample of your work in the relevant field is still important to include. In Art, for example, a portfolio of work would be suitable, while in scientific or technical fields, a sample of research or, for instance, programming, would be appropriate.

Complete Application Package (generic):

* Application

* GRE (or other specific standardized test, GMAT, LSAT, etc) scores

* Official Transcripts

* 2-4 letters of recommendation, one of which (if 3 or above) may be work-related, otherwise they should be written by professors with whom you have studied.

* Personal Statement

* Writing Sample

* CV (including references)

Jobs

In the job application process, it is equally important to have prepared a sample of your work pertaining to the career you are seeking. It may not be required by a prospective employer, but if available and offered, samples of your written or other work could help persuade the employer. It allows you to demonstrate knowledge and capability in your chosen field of work.

Complete Application Package:

* Cover Letter

* Resume

* References

Assignments:

* Reading response to “Will 'O The Wisp” - Due Saturday, January 23^rd

* Writing Sample, or equivalent – Due Sunday, January 24^th

* Prepare complete application packages (last three items on list only for Graduate School applications)

Monday – January 25^th