OK, so I'm in the process of applying to grad school and I have to write a letter of intent. So my question is, does this need to be an actual letter and if it is, how do I address it? I'm guessing 'Dear Grad School Admissions Decision-Maker Person,' is out.
what's the field? and what's the prompt. usually it's a statement of objectives in my experience. in which case it's not far from a college essay. but what exactly does the app say? and man... most apps are due soon right? good luck.
Without actually knowing the wording of the application sitting before you, I'd say this: You can either submit a 1-2 page statement of intent, separate of your short cover letter, OR you can write a cover letter than clearly aims to describe your intent. The more focused you are here, the better. I'd recommend that you avoid being vague and that you avoid cliches. Best of luck.
Thanks, B-bob. I've got a pretty good idea of what I want to say, I'm just not sure about the format. One school asked for a "Letter of Intent" and another school asked for a 200-word essay. 200 words? I can write that in my sleep! I'm looking at Architecture, which is kind of a left turn for me since my Bachelor's is in Psychology. I did grow up working summers for my Dad's construction company, so I do have something of a background. The app for UofH is due 1 Feb, so I plan on getting it all together over the weekend and then I'll Fed-Ex it or something to make sure. This could be my ticket out of Dallas!
If no individual is mentioned (Dear Dr. XXX) I suggest Dear Graduate Admissions Committee. Good advice. If it was a research program (e.g., PhD some masters) versus a professional program (I assume you are looking a a general architecture degree) your statement should be even longer and you should try to make connections to the specific areas the program/department/faculty is active in. If possible I would try to talk to others in that program to find out what they are interested in (help tailor your letter) and what the program/climate is really like for students (for your own knowledge before getting involved).
