How are mentors assigned?
We do our best to assign mentor-mentee pairs based on the applicant’s intended Ph.D. program(s) and research interests that align with the faculty mentor.
What are the benefits of participating in the program?
In addition to a faculty mentor and financial assistance for graduate applications, selected Pre-Graduate Fellows will also have the opportunity to engage with other professors in the program and their fellow cohort members. Pre-Graduate Fellows are encouraged to interact with one another and take advantage of the program’s network, both during their award year and beyond. To assist you, your mentor may review your application materials and target programs, provide guidance on suggested coursework, and/or other helpful efforts as needed.
The program is through the Economics department and lists several economics professors. Do I have to be interested in pursuing a graduate program in economics to apply?
No. Several members of the faculty mentoring committee have interdisciplinary research interests that align with sociology, computer science, political science, public policy, and other fields. We encourage applicants interested in these or similar economics-related fields to apply.
How can I strengthen my application?
A strong statement describing your motivation for applying to graduate school and intended course of study is very beneficial. Letters of recommendation are also given considerable weight. The best letters will come from someone who knows the applicant well.
How frequently will I meet with my mentor?
In addition to the introductory meeting for new Fellows, Fellows can request meetings with their mentors as frequently as needed. The structure of the mentorship component of the program is flexible – mentees are encouraged to cultivate a relationship that best meets their needs.
The program prioritizes students who are applying this year but one-on-one mentoring is scheduled to start in early December – near or after the first round of Ph.D. application deadlines. How beneficial will the mentor relationship be if I’ve already submitted my application?
Once assigned a mentor in mid-November, please feel free to contact them with any questions that may be helpful for applications. Mentoring is also encouraged to continue in the spring to help with choosing a program and what to consider for that decision.
Will everyone be notified of a decision?
Yes. We anticipate notifications being announced one week after the application deadline.