Suggestions
- Start early. The more time you give yourself to think and write carefully about your research, the better chance you'll have at getting money.
- Look at the length designated by the specific fellowship application. Bear this length in mind as you write.
- Make an outline. This will help you stick to what's important.
- Begin with an attention-getting sentence. The bleary-eyed committee members have zillions of essays to read, so make sure yours sticks out.
- Summarize your research, following your outline. Stay as brief and to the point as possible; long, drawn-out sentences will bore your readers.
- Cite sources, showing the breadth and depth of your knowledge of the literature.
- Give your draft to at least three people, including your advisor, if possible. Ask them to be as specific as possible in their comments and criticisms.
- Write a second draft, with revisions based on the suggestions you've received.
- Give this draft to three people who didn't see your first draft. Try consulting other graduate students who have received fellowships. They'll be a great source of advice for you.
- Revise again based on these new comments.
Tips
- Contact your school's academic advising office for information about prospectus-writing workshops.
- Take on the tone of a scholar, as much as possible; convince the committee that this is your area of expertise.
- Remember who your audience is, and tailor your prospectus to their backgrounds and interests.
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