Recruitment & Communicating with Prospects

Applicants often benefit from insight into what “research fit” means, and how differences in theoretical perspectives and training goals are valued and engaged within your advising practices. However, if the perceived focus of statements about fit is "culture fit," this can create pressure to conform, or discourage applicants from diverse backgrounds. 

Applicants benefit from insight into the different pathways to becoming a strong applicant and how they can leverage the flexibility afforded by holistic application review:

• What alternatives to “traditional” research experiences could applicants consider when describing their preparation?
• What strategies might an applicant consider for identifying strong recommendation writers if “traditional” faculty recommenders are not available (i.e. student has been out of school for several years)?
• How could applicants emphasize their unique strengths and demonstrate that they can thrive when they have appropriate support and resources?
• In what situations might an extenuating circumstances statement be appropriate?
   

Guidance and annual training on the impact of the July 2023 Supreme Court decision on race-conscious admissions and related topics is provided by the Graduate School. All admissions decision makers must be fully compliant with these requirements for the Fall 2024 cycle and thereafter. Admissions committee chairs are required to complete annual training; all faculty participating in review are also encouraged to do so.

Consult the Department’s Best Practices & Legal Considerations in Admissions: Communicating with Prospects, Reviewing Applications guide for additional information.

• UMN Graduate School’s Diversity Recruitment Toolkit
• Equity in Graduate Education Resource Center, Inclusive Graduate Education Network (IGEN)

• General inquiries for information on how to apply can be referred or forwarded to [email protected].
• When applicants have specific questions about faculty research, advising practices, and similar topics that staff cannot answer, applicants are advised to contact faculty directly. Please aim for consistency in the amount of time and forms of interaction provided to prospective applicants.