DSPT PhD Programs and Portfolio Workshop

Considering going on to a PhD?The following tips and suggestions will help you navigate the process and prepare yourself to put together a successful application.

Where is this information from? The experience of DSPT alumni Robert Peters, Getting What You

Came For: The Smart Student’s Guide to Earning a M.A. or a Ph.D.

(New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1997)

Part I: Choosing a School

START EARLY!

Part I: Choosing a School

1. Potential AdvisorsA. You should look primarily for a

scholar, only secondarily at an institution

B. How do you find an advisor?a. Use the libraryb. Read, read, read!c. Ask your professorsd. Look online

Part I: Choosing a School

1. Potential AdvisorsC. Things to look for

a. Career maturity/tenureb. Reputationc. Personality

D. Contact potential advisorsa. Proofread your letter!b. Plan to visit the school

Part I: Choosing a School

2. Department PrestigeA. Connections in the fieldB. Future job prospectsC. Check reputation of department within

your area of interest

Part I: Choosing a School

3. Other ConsiderationsA. AttritionB. Time to completionC. Job placement successD. Teaching requirementsE. Financial support

Part II: Preparing to Apply

Plan to apply to at least

programs!

10

Part II: Preparing to Apply1. Grades and GRE scores2. Letters of RecommendationGive your recommender:

A postage-paid envelope addressed to the school An unofficial transcript A copy of your CV A memo from you to your recommender reminding him or her

about important things to put in the letter

3. Statement of PurposeThe GTU offers a “Writing the Academic Statement of Purpose” workshop!This year: Wednesday, October 10, 12:30-2pm; Dinner Board Room, GTU

LibraryContact Kathleen Kook (kkook@gtu.edu) or GTU admissions (

gtuadm@gtu.edu) to reserve a place.

Part III: So What Can You Do Now? Languages Conferences Publications M.A. Program/Portfolio

Above all: Don’t stress too much over getting into PhD programs!