ELI Workshop: Writing and Refining Your Grad School Application Essays

Are you applying to a graduate program for Fall 2026? Are you trying to figure out how to organize and narrow down all that you might write in your Statement of Purpose (SOP)? How does an SOP differ from a Personal Statement? How does a Teaching Philosophy Statement or a Diversity Statement fit in? We will examine organizational strategies for different types of application essays. You will also learn ways to find the words to make a strong case for why you are a great match for the program(s) you are applying to. Bring a list of ideas, a draft outline, or draft essays to work on during the workshop. Please come prepared to participate actively in small group discussions.