What do you look for in an applicant? How important are grades, the quality of undergraduate or previous graduate programs, recommendations, work experience, and the candidates statement of purpose?
In making admission decisions, we look for a balanced record of previous preparation and accomplishment, and indications of high potential for future growth and development. We look for a good degree of overlap between what you say you want and what we believe we can provide. We do not look for the same measures of accomplishment and potential in each student. We value a diversity of skills, backgrounds and outlooks in our department. We say this not only because we are required by Federal law and University policy to act this way, but because our experience with current and previous students has shown it to be true — a diverse group of students, faculty and staff leads to a more creative, innovative and productive place to work, teach and learn. We want a good balance of women and men, people from underrepresented groups, and US and International students with different backgrounds and interests because this improves the quality of our department. We do attempt to learn as much about
