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Creating an Academic Plan

The importance of creating an academic plan is illustrated by the following excerpts of questions from actual fellowship applications:

  1. What are the three most significant courses you have taken in preparation for your career? Truman
  2. Describe the graduate education program you intend to pursue. all -Truman, Marshall, Rhodes, Beinecke, Javits, NSF, etc.
  3. Describe your proposed plan of research. Marshall, NSF
  4. Have you taken any graduate level courses?
  5. List the language requirements for the graduate program you are considering.
  6. List academic awards and honors relevant to your field of study. all
  7. Have you taken the courses needed to pursue a graduate degree in the intended field? implied in all
  8. Recommendations- do you have a faculty member who would be a "preferred recommender" as the Marshall committee requires or write an "Intellect and Prospects for Continuing Academic Success" recommendation as the Truman Foundation requires. Have you taken a class with this faculty member? Is this faculty member in the field you wish to pursue? Have you assisted this professor in his/her research? NSF
  9. List previous research experience. NSF, Goldwater
  10. Describe an activity or experience that has been important in clarifying or strengthening your motivation for a career in ______ field? Goldwater

In considering what courses to select in your academic plan, we suggest considering the following questions:

  1. Are you taking the courses you will need to attend graduate school/support your study proposal?
  2. Are you taking a foreign language?
  3. Are you taking challenging courses?
  4. Will you be able to take a 500-level course your fourth year?
  5. Do you plan on writing a thesis or engaging in a major lab project?
  6. Are you developing meaningful relationships with your faculty?
  7. Have you reflected critically on your motivations, talents, and goals?
  8. Is there a meaningful link between your activities and curriculum?