Brandeis GPS Blog

Insights on online learning, tips for finding balance, and news and updates from Brandeis GPS

Tag: advanced degree

Don’t let writer’s block undermine your grad school application

When it comes to submitting graduate school applications, we’ve heard from students we’ve worked with that the most daunting item has been the statement of goals. While our requirement is a minimum of 500 words, it is easy to get stuck on how to best articulate your goals for applying to graduate school and why you are interested in one of our programs in particular. Here are few tips that can get the words flowing:

Where to start: If you are struggling with the essay format, it may be easier to jot down bullet points to answer the questions in an outline. Once you have the basics down, you can go back and reformat.

Don’t tell us, show us: This is your place to show the committee why you are a great candidate! Give specific examples to highlight your experience and accomplishments. Don’t be afraid to share personal anecdotes about your personal journey to this master’s program.

Answer the questions: Once you write your first draft, make sure to refer back to the questions asked in the prompt. Were they answered fully?

Review and revise: Grammar, punctuation, flow and spelling are important! Have a friend or colleague read over your essay before you submit.

As always, our team is happy to answer any questions you have throughout this process! Contact us at 781-736-8787 or gps@brandeis.edu.

<<Start your GPS application>>

Submitting academic transcripts to grad school

At Brandeis GPS, we want to make your application process as smooth as possible. Our admissions team is always available to answer any questions and look forward to guiding you through your application process. With our online application, you can directly upload your resume and statement of goals, and send requests for letters of recommendation right to our online system.

One item that does need to be submitted outside of the online application is your official transcript. Here’s some FAQs we often get about submitting transcripts:

Does Brandeis GPS accept electronic transcripts?

Yes! We do accept electronic transcripts, as long as they are official. This is the easiest and fastest method for both the applicant and us!

How should I send electronic transcripts?

Provide your school(s) with our email address: gps@brandeis.edu. We will confirm once the documents are received.

What address should I use for paper transcripts?

These should be sent directly from the school(s) to our mailing address:

                  Brandeis University                

                  Graduate Professional Studies

                  415 South Street, MS 084

                  Waltham, MA 02453-2728

We’ll let you know when we have them!

How can I check the status of my application items?

At any time, you can login to your applicant status page once your application is submitted to see what items are pending: Login

Do I need to submit transcripts if I transferred courses?

Yes, we require official transcripts for all colleges/universities attended.

<<Start your GPS application>>

We love speaking with our applicants, so please feel free to contact us any time! Applying for a master’s degree is a big decision, so we are happy to talk you through the steps and answer any questions you have.

Thoughts from a Recent Graduate

 A look at the Brandeis GPS student experience through the eyes of recent graduate from our Master of Software Engineering Program, Megan Tsai. 

My time with Brandeis GPS has been very helpful for my career. This is a feeling shared by all of my fellow GPS graduates. During commencement, IMG_1230the student speaker shared his experience of taking a discussion or an idea from class and applying it directly to his job. Many of the GPS graduates sitting in front of me were nodding their heads in agreement. There were several times I was able take what I had learned just the night before and take my work to the next level.

As one of the few students in an entry level position in all of my courses, my experience in the master’s degree program involved mostly sharing my perspective as an entry level worker. This allowed me to gain career advice from experienced fellow students and instructors. GPS courses are not just for established workers with years of experiences under their belt. GPS courses are for anyone who wants to advance his or her career, exchange ideas with people from different backgrounds, and catch up on the latest technologies and techniques. 

The types of cIMG_1262ourses offered allow software engineers of different capacities to learn something new. The fact that GPS courses are online helps professionals living around the world connect through an academic environment. The online courses also allow busy people find  time in their day to complete the course requirements. Ten courses may seem impossible for any one busy with work, life and other commitments. However, the flexible nature of GPS courses will help anyone achieve the dream of obtaining an advanced degree.

© 2023 Brandeis GPS Blog

Theme by Anders NorenUp ↑

Protected by Akismet
Blog with WordPress

Welcome Guest | Login (Brandeis Members Only)