specifically for archaeology (Masters or PHD but gravitating more towards PHD)
I heard it is tougher to get into graduate school than undergrad. Is that true?
I am currently almost finished with my associates degree in the Arts at a community college. Will that hurt my chance of getting into a archaeology graduate school?
There are some Ivy league schools that I’m interested in turning a application in for as well (Princeton, Columbia, Harvard) However, I know those are very difficult schools to get into in general. So any advice on what admissions is looking for?
How do I stand out? Does a catchy and stellar essay help? Does volunteering help?
(I am also a artist and my artwork has been published in a book, the funds go to art supplies for high schools. Should I mention that in my application? Will it be helpful even though it is not directly archaeology related?)
I’m sorry that I’m not answering your questions. But I’m confused.
To get into a grad school, you need a BA/BS degree.
You are “currently almost finished with” an AA/AS degree. Why are you asking about applying to grad school?
Your next step should be getting a BA/BS degree, not MA/MS or PhD.
From what I know, Ivy league schools in general don’t admit many “transfer students” from community colleges. Your best bet is a public school in your state.
Grad schools will be looking for activities related to your field and undergrad research in that field. unlike undergrad admission, they are not looking for a generalist. You will also need a very high GPA and GRE if you are aiming for the Ivies.
Finishing your degree somewhere where you can participate in research and get to know faculty who are active in the field will help you put together a more competitive application for graduate school.
Yes, mostly.
Getting an associate’s degree? Not necessarily. But if you are focused on only arts, you need to select a major that will prepare you for graduate study in archaeology - probably anthropology or classics at most colleges.
Research experience first and foremost - you need to transfer somewhere professors are doing research and where you can help. Do a summer field program or go on a dig with some professors to get that experience. You also need excellent grades, great GRE scores, three strong letters of recommendation (one from someone who has supervised you in research) and a strong fit with the research interests of the program.
You stand out simply by being good. There are no gimmicks - just have a passion for research and clearly articulated research and career goals. A stellar essay helps. Volunteering does not.
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No.