How important is the essay?
The personal essay is extremely important. Members of the Selection Committee examine the essay for clues to the character, commitment, and interests of each candidate. This is the only opportunity for the applicant to convey a sense of his/her passions, personality, and intellectual drive. In addition, a well-written essay should provide the Committee with valuable insight into the applicant s motivation and rationale for the proposed graduate study program that is not otherwise communicated in the rest of the application materials.
