This article was written by Jaime Tucker, Director of Admissions and Recruitment for the Graduate School of Business at Walton College.
Applying for a graduate program is more than completing forms and submitting documents — it’s a chance to tell your story and define your next chapter. But between the transcripts, resumes, recommendation letters, and essays, it’s easy to focus on completing the application rather than building a strong one.
At the Sam M. Walton College of Business, we review graduate program applications holistically. Every component of the application should help tell a clear, consistent story about who you are, what you want to achieve, and why a Walton College master’s degree program is the right next step for you.
To strengthen your application and help you stand out, here are six must-do items every applicant should prioritize.
1. Craft a Strong Statement of Purpose
While the admissions committee will review transcripts and a resume, the statement of purpose is where an applicant can really tell their story. I always say that there is so much more to an applicant than what a transcript and resume will show, and that is where the statement of purpose comes into play. It is important to clearly communicate the why. Why are you interested in the program and how does it align with your personal and professional goals?
2. Submit an Up-to-Date, Detailed Resume
This should include roles, organizations, locations, and importantly, dates of employment. Understanding the length and progression of work experience is key for program admissions committees. It might seem surprising to point out that dates and locations should be included, but we see a lot of resumes that don't include this information.
3. Choose Recommenders Thoughtfully
Applicants should select individuals who can speak to their ability to succeed in a graduate program and what they will contribute. For those with limited work experience, academic references such as professors, advisors, or organization leaders are great options. For those with professional experience, supervisors or colleagues who can provide meaningful insight are ideal.
4. Make Sure Your Application Materials Are Consistent
It is important that your transcript matches what you include on your resume and reference in your application materials. If you mention a specific GPA, coursework, or academic experience, the admissions committee will look for that, so everything should align.
5. Ensure Your Online Presence Aligns with Your Application
Admissions committee members may look at LinkedIn. It is important that what they find supports what you have submitted. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it should be consistent and reinforce your overall story.
6. Take Advantage of Pre-Application Support
One thing applicants often don’t realize is that admissions and recruitment staff in the Graduate School of Business are available to help before submission. We are happy to review resumes or statements of purpose and answer questions to help applicants present their strongest application.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the most important thing is for applicants to present the best and most complete version of themselves. Every component of the application should work together to tell a clear and compelling story.
Learn More about Graduate Programs at Walton College
If you’d like to learn about the Walton Graduate School of Business and how it can support your career goals, click here for information about degree programs and application information.
