Graduate Essay Samples

As more highly qualified candidates are applying to graduate school every year, the process of selecting students often goes beyond comparing test scores and grades to using more subjective measures like the graduate school application essay.

The deadlines are usually the last week of October, but it is never too early to start.(Below is direct text from NSF but with sentences cut and added highlights)General Review Criteria In considering applications, reviewers are instructed to address the two Merit Review Criteria as approved by the National Science Board - Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts.

Therefore, applicants must include separate statements on Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts in their written statements in order to provide reviewers with the information necessary to evaluate the application with respect to both Criteria as detailed below.

If something seems outdated or wrong, please let me know!

The NSF GRFP provides $34,000 to the student and some money to your department for three years. Currently a graduating Senior or First/Second year graduate student (Note: there are some some exceptions if you started a program but then took time off, but I don't understand them, sorry)3.

You have the flexibility to defer for up to two years in case you have another source of funding (but you cannot defer to take a year off). Graduate students may only apply in their first OR second year (NOT both). Going into science research (does not apply to medical school)Check out the official requirements at the NSF GRFP website.

Here is the more detailed NSF presentation on the requirements.

I feel very fortunate that the goals I have formed for myself over the past few years are helping me make the most of every opportunity that presents itself, allowing me to live a life with true meaning...

Growing up in a small village deep in rural Russia I never could have dreamed that as an adult I would be doing cutting edge research on polymer science, but through hard work, a desire to build a future of advancement, and inspiration from those scientists who have gone before me, I have already fulfilled the first few steps of this amazing dream... Not some delicate and fragile blossom that droops in adverse environments, but a strong and hearty plant that can make the most of what is offered and bloom anywhere.

In the two years that have passed since I earned my undergraduate degree, much has changed in my life.

I returned to my homeland of Malasia after six years of living in the United States and began working for a major international company.