Essential Pointers to the Successful Graduate School Application
There are many components that graduate programs look at when accepting applications for students to attend their universities. One component is usually standardized testing. Another is the personal essay. These two components of the graduate school application stand out because it defines a learner’s academic capabilities as well as ability to communicate effectively. According to Kuther (2009), regardless of discipline, virtually all graduate school applications entail the same basic components: transcript, GRE, letters of recommendation, and admissions essay.
While the transcript and letters of recommendation exemplify the applicants past performance and personal biases from those who know the student best, the GRE and the admissions essay often have greater weight because it is usually an indicator of future performance. In a study conducted by Powers and Fowles (2000), results from the GRE Writing exam had a strong correlation with acceptance rates as the GRE Writing Assessment so long as it was hand scored provided faculty with the ability to see a future learner’s aptitude and writing skills. Additionally, the personal statements often showed a students ability to think logically and clearly while presenting personal or analytical information (depending on the type of essay question). A common theme was that those who demonstrated strong vocabulary and writing skills were often more likely to be admitted into the Graduate School program of their choice and performance at or above the average performer. Essays and Writing Assessments that present an appropriate length (Weins, Jackson, Manaugh, & Matarazzo, 1969); tone, content, and structure (Loher, Hazer, Tsai, Tilton & James, 1997); strong written vocabulary (Ralston & Yoder, 1989); and the presence of specific examples versus generalities (Knouse, 1983) are all fundamental in the success of preparing a strong graduate school application.
Among all these studies, a common theme of building stronger writing skills and a vocabulary is important. As the educational landscape becomes more demanding of today’s students, training tools such as Ultimate Vocabulary are an integral part of the improving the graduate students writing and comprehension aptitude. Studies at the secondary school level support this based on a study presented by Berson (1996) who indicated that educational technologies and computers contribute to student achievement, motivation, and enhanced performance, especially in areas where writing is associated. Tools such that build a students vocabulary skills are a part of this class of capabilities.
