Where to start...

Where to start…

Since my last post with its teasing cliffhanger some time has passed. So I thought I’d finally start to share my wisdom about the required application documents. From the information lecture and my talks with the coordinators, I pretty much knew what I was supposed to hand in by the end of the application deadline (which is a completely different kettle of fish and was pretty nerve-wracking, too; considering that I am a vegetarian). But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. I (and every other poor soul who applies for an exchange program overseas) had/will have to hand in the following documents:

1.      Letter of purpose: Here you need to state the reasons why you chose the specific university, explain your academic goals and achievements, etc.

2.      CV: Well, you really oughta know what that is about.

3.      2 reference letters: NB these should not be written either by yourself or your mother – we all know she loves you and thinks that you are the best, but her opinion is not what the people in the admissions office want to read.

4.      Results of your TOEFL exam: Do not underestimate this exam. Even as an English major you better know what’s coming because it ain’t easy.

5.      Transcript of your grades in English: You can actually print these out and get a stamp affixed at the administration (Prüfungsreferat).

6.      Application form from your chosen university: Sounds simple, but it often isn’t. It could be that program coordinators or application forms change, or that other unexpected things happen. I guess you can see my point that this is a real fun one.

Taken together, these documents may not seem overwhelming or scary. But believe me, they are. And if you’re as lucky as I am, that is only half of what you’ll have to deal with. More things are coming your way that you would have never thought possible. This is a time of endurance, patience, and desire for chocolate. But look on the bright side: once you are done, you’ll come out much stronger. I was wondering about how hard it must be to prepare for and finish a triathlon or a marathon – but at least these are over in a day, right?

Okay, I am really sorry if I scared someone with my list or with my subtle sarcasm. It is important, however, to realize that the application process is not a piece of cake (now that is the type of food that I enjoy). It’s going to be long and hard but worth it once you are wandering around campus in a land far, far away. Again, keep things in perspective and think positive, but be realistic. And do expect to be investing a lot of time and nerves (hence the chocolate).

After giving this short overview about required application documents my plan is to go into more detail over the next couple of weeks. I’ll try to share some of the advice that I was given, some useful links, and the assurance that you are not alone out there.

Yours truly,

Lemon