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New Mexico State University

Graduate School Application Resources

NMSU NSSLHA would like to thank all of our guest presenters for taking time out of their busy schedules to meet with our group and present valuable information regarding graduate school applications.  Our presenters: Dr. Valdez, Dr. Ortega, and Dr. Spencer, have provided NSSLHA with electronic versions of their presentations for those of our members unable to attend our scheduled meetings.  Dr. Bae's presentation is available as a hard copy (printed version); please ask any of the officers if you wish to obtain a copy. 

Choosing Your Recommender

Dr. Valdez focused on letters of recommendation for his presentation.  He presented valuable information for students regarding these letters including: requesting a letter, familiarizing yourself with program websites, your right of access (and considerations), and choosing a recommender. Below you will find a .pdf version of the presentation provided by Dr. Valdez.

Request for Letters Packet Check-List

Figuring out who to ask for a letter of recommendation is rough work, but the hard part is just beginning.  Luckily, Dr. Ortega has outlined what you need to have in order for your recommender to provide you with the best letter possible. Follow these points, and include the check list with your packet to give your recommender pertinent information about you and the programs for which you will be applying.

Personal Statement

When people think of sales, often times car dealers come to mind.  These men and women know how to make any car look and sound like the best buy on the lot.  This is the type of mentality you must have when writing a personal statement for your graduate school applications.  Dr. Spencer touches on many aspects of personal statements, including: planning, researching, writing, and editing.  Within the powerpoint provided below are a few exampes of personal statements.  What are you waiting for? Go out there and make the most important sales pitch of your life! 

Release of Information

There are some cases for which students must give permission for anyone to discuss their academic performance (i.e., including GPA, grades obtained in courses), including their recommender.  Please speak to your recommenders about filling out a FERPA form.  Below is a sample of a release which indicates your recommender may speak about your academic history; it also includes information regarding your right of access.