Give yourself enough time to complete your application
Responses to open-ended questions should be thoughtful and detailed, showing that the applicant:
- Is interested in gaining research experience in a specific area (Immunity and Infection, Neurosciences, etc.)
- Is interested in a particular technology, methodology or a specific biological model system
- Has reviewed the list of faculty lab pages for specific research interests
Proofread all application materials
Responses and supporting materials should be reviewed for accuracy and completeness prior to application submission. Rush University is unable to accept late or revised materials.
Ask for feedback on your personal statement
Friends, professors, faculty advisors or writing centers are great resources for reviewing your statement. When preparing this document, consider the following key points:
- Why are you applying to a Rush University undergraduate research program?
- What are your interests and career goals?
- What prior research experience do you have? (not required for acceptance to program)
- If you don’t have prior research experience, what other experiences have helped prepare you to be successful in the program?
- How will conducting research at Rush University further or help you achieve your academic and career goals?
Request a recommendation from someone who can highlight your relevant strengths
When requesting a recommendation:
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Choose your references wisely. Recommendations from individuals in a department or field similar to that which you are applying are viewed more favorably than recommendation letters from an individual in a non-related field.
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Give your references at least two weeks to submit a recommendation on your behalf.
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Make your request for a recommendation in writing or email, as well as in person. Give your references a copy of your resume and/or the following information:
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The name of the program and a brief description of what it entails
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The name of the host institution
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A brief description of how the program fits in with your goals
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A brief description of what you will contribute to the program and how you will benefit from participating
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The due date for the recommendation, to whom it should be addressed and how the letter should be submitted
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Send your reference a reminder one week prior to the application deadline. Confirm they submitted the recommendation
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Send your reference(s) a note of thanks
