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Start a Draft: Jump Start Your Statement
Overall, fellowship applications will have similar questions. For this reason, it is best to take the approach of compiling all your information into one generic statement. The undertaking of writing a statement will require pulling the pertinent information from your generic statement to respond to each of the application questions instead of composing a new statement for each application. Your demanding schedule will require you to work smart; start by answering the provided generic questions. Your goal is to write all your information in one place to serve as a reference to answer application questions. Avoid focusing on character, page, or word limits, but be concise. Reviewers can lose interest in your proposal when you begin to ramble (remember you are applicant #187 out of 200). However, if rambling gives you the incentive to begin your statement or gets the writing juices flowing for the first draft, then plan to modify your information during the second draft for more concision.
Respond to the generic questions assuming all applicants will have a great GPA and letters of recommendation. Respond to the questions with information that will make the reviewer remember you. Depending on your academic status, you want to convince the reader that you have the potential to be successful graduate student and/or that you have a clear understanding of your research and a solid plan and the ability to successfully complete your proposed research. Your faculty, advisor, and mentors (FAM) can provide excellent feedback. Review and incorporate your FAM's suggestions before preparing your application essay.