Hubbard Center Guides

An Intellectual Narrative

Provides the reader with a sense of your priorities and judgement, allowing them to know you more personally.

The personal statement is just one, but very important, part of an application. Each personal statement must be tailored to each specific application. Pay close attention to the prompt, as some things you may include in a personal statement for one application may make more sense to include in another part of a different application. 

Writing & Editing Suggestions

• Keep your primary points brief and clear. Reviewers will likely skim your statement because of the volume they are reviewing.

• While addressing the prompt, be sure to keep to word or character limits.

• Your opening sentence should catch the reader's attending and last sentence pulls ideas in the essay together. Conclude with something specific and visionary.

• Be sure there is a thread connecting the different parts of the essay.

• Give specific, detailed examples to illustrate each of the points made. Make it relevant; if it's not, then it doesn't belong. 

• Be sure topic sentences [first sentence of each paragraph] lay out an idea that is then developed and illustrated by the following paragraph.

• Edit your statement. Have many people read your statements and provide feedback. Cut out unnecessary words and avoid cliches.

Brainstorming Your Essay

As you begin planning your essay, consider the following:

• What is special, unique or distinctive about you and your life story?

• What details n your life shaped you or influenced your goals?

• When did you become interested in this opportunity and what have you chosen to do to reinforce your conviction in pursuing this opportunity?

• What do you know about this field and how did you learn it?

• What are your career goals?

• Are there gaps or discrepancies in your academic record worth explaining?

• Have your made any mistakes or have any regrets that taught you something important about yourself?

• Why might you be more successful and effective in this opportunity than other applicants?

Tell your story: your qualification [Background, Skills, Experiences, Traits]

Demonstrate your fit or suitability:  Connect your story with your future, Show how the opportunity is essential for a bright, More successful future

Project your Future: Short Term[1-3 years], Long Term[5+ years]

Additional Resources:  Writing Personal Statements Online, Purdue OWL

Instrumental in describing your experiences and skills.

Proper use of action verbs can strengthen your resume and help it stand out. You can also Google search "action verb" for more ideas.

Accelerated

Accomplished

Achieved

Adapted

Administered

Aided

Allocated

Amplified

Analyzed

Answered

Appointed

Approved

Arbitrated

Arranged

Assisted

Assumed

 Augmented

Awarded

Began

Broadened 

Build 

 Circulated

Cataloged

Chaired 

Charted 

Complied 

Conceived 

Conducted 

Constructed 

Consulted 

Contracted 

Controlled 

Cooperated 

Coordinated 

Counseled 

Created 

Delegated 

Demonstrated 

Designed 

Determined 

Developed 

Devised 

Devoted 

Diagrammed 

Directed 

Displayed 

Distributed 

Edited 

Effected 

Elimated 

Employed

Established 

Evaluated 

Examined 

Expanded 

Expedited

Extended 

Focused 

Fortified 

Founded 

Generated

Guided 

Handled 

Implemented

Improved 

Incorporated 

Increased  

Influenced 

Initiated 

Installed

Instituted

Instructed 

Interpreted 

Introduced 

Launched

Led

Lectured  

Maintained 

Managed 

Modified

Monitored

Motivated 

Negotiated 

Observed 

Operated

Organized 

Oriented 

Originated 

Overhauled 

Participated

Performed 

Planned 

Pinpointed 

Prepared 

Presented 

Preserved 

Processed 

Produced

Programmed 

Proposed 

Provided 

Received 

Recruited 

Recommended 

Rectified 

Reduced 

Regulated 

Reinforced 

Reorganized 

Researched 

Reshaped 

Resolved 

Restored 

Reviewed 

Revised 

Scheduled 

Selected 

Set up 

Simplified 

Solved 

Streamlined

Structured

Supervided

Supported

Taught

Trained

Tutored

Volunteered

Worked

Wrote

Professional References

Get to know your faculty members and let them get to know you. They can write a specific, detailed letter that speaks to your accomplishments. You can build a relationship in a variety of ways:

• Attend office hours

• Talk with them about your areas of interest and future aspirations

• Ask them about their research

• Take more than one course from a faculty member whose work closely aligns with yours

• Consider conducting research with a faculty member

Request letters of recommendation at least a month in advance of the deadline, preferably 2-3 months in advance. You can send a reminder to the letter writer closer to the deadline.

Be professional in making the request, but don't feel awkward about it. Faculty members and former employers want to support their students. They are accustomed to writing letters of recommendation. Provide them with as much information as possible to help them write the letter and be sure to share information about your proposed program or activity. A draft of your statement of purpose, application, and copy of your resume is helpful, so they have a full picture of what they are supporting you for. Establishing a portfolio of your work is helpful to share, to refresh their recollection of your skills and abilities. 

Letters for Off-Campus Study, Graduate study, or a fellowship

Request letters from only faculty members. Letters from colleagues or employers should be requested in the very rare case when your proposed study is extremely well aligned.

Graduate School: Be proactive about gaps between when you graduate and when you apply to graduate school. The best letters of recommendations are from faculty who know you well. But because they teach hundreds of students, it is harder for them to write strong letters the longer it has been since you were in their classroom.  If you have a gap between graduation and applying, consider requesting the letters while you are still fresh in their memory and keeping them on file.

Letters for an internship or Job

Request letters from a combination of supervisors and faculty members. These individuals should be able to speak specifically to the work you have done and connect it to your proposed work.

Say thanks

Send a thank you note and update them on your progress. A good reference writer will be interested in your success. It will also help next time you might need a reference from that individual. 

Discuss Why You Are the Best Candidate

Prepare to ask questions to help you determine if the position is what you want.

Common Interview Types

• Career Fairs- Consider these a screening interview. Be brief and to the point, ask good questions and have your 30- second elevator speech ready. 

• Phone/Skype- Usually an initial interview used to screen applicants for the next, more in-depth round. Reserve an interview room in the Hubbard Center for a private space.

• Panel- Where there are multiple people asking you questions.

• Group- Where multiple candidates answer questions together.

• Behavior-based- Questions posed will ask you to discuss your previous experience to indicate your habits, personality and how you would fit in the organization.

• Case study- Assess your problem-solving skills and lets you demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.

Visit the Hubbard Center for help understanding how to prepare and practice with some mock interviews.

Prepare for Interview Success

For each type of interview, you will need to do extensive research on the company to do well and impress the committee. Utilize a variety of resources:

• Organization's website- Study the Homepage, About Us and Contact Us sections. Know the company mission, locations and officers. Know the products and services it provides. Read press releases. Review annual and quarterly reports.

• LinkedIn- Look at employees--what career paths have they followed? Read the organization news. Follow the company.

• Search engines- Search the organization's name and products--research several pages of results. Look for good and bad news and the reasons for it. Who are the major customers and competitors? Create a Google alert.

• Additional web resources- Search for leaders' presentations and watch them. What connections do you have to them? Hometown, college, etc. Visit Glassdoor and Yahoo Finance for additional information.

Prepare to Tell Your Story

Your interview is the opportunity for you to discuss your education and experience to detail why the organization should hire you.

Using the STAR format will help you answer questions thoroughly, build rapport with your interviewer and demonstrate past results to show your fit for the organization. You should prepare your STAR responses before an interview. Reflect on and prepare to discuss examples that best highlight your experiences and skills that you would be using in the position you seek.

Situation: The context, such as were you were.

Task: What you needed to complete or achieve; the problem that needed to be solved. 

Action: What you did to accomplish the task; focus on your actions, not the group;s actions.

Result: What happened? Did you meet, fall short, exceed expectations? What did you learn?

Common Interview Questions

• Tell me about yourself. This is your opportunity to explain your background; be sure to focus on elements and experiences that are relevant to the position.

• Why do you want to work here? Research is key for answering this questions. You should discuss the field of work, including the company's products, services or business. Demonstrate your knowledge of the industry.

• What relevant experience do you have? Your can demonstrate your understanding of the day-to-day work in the field. Detail any transferable experiences you have that can give some insight into the result you have in the position.

• What is your greatest strength? Explain your awareness of what makes you unique. Provide details about how you can use your strengths to benefit the position you are seeking.

• What is your greatest weakness? Answer with a trait you have been improving, with examples of how you have learned from experience. Questions such as this provide the employer perspective on how you handle difficult questions and moments.

• Do you have any questions for me? This is an important time to have lingering questions answered. By having legitimate, well considered questions to ask, you will demonstrate that you have put serious thought into what this position would mean for you. You can also demonstrate your research by asking detailed questions about the business.

Click here

Instrumental in describing your experiences and skills.

Proper use of action verbs can strengthen your resume and help it stand out. You can also Google search "action verb" for more ideas.

Accelerated

Accomplished

Achieved

Adapted

Administered

Aided

Allocated

Amplified

Analyzed

Answered

Appointed

Approved

Arbitrated

Arranged

Assisted

Assumed

 Augmented

Awarded

Began

Broadened 

Build 

 Circulated

Cataloged

Chaired 

Charted 

Complied 

Conceived 

Conducted 

Constructed 

Consulted 

Contracted 

Controlled 

Cooperated 

Coordinated 

Counseled 

Created 

Delegated 

Demonstrated 

Designed 

Determined 

Developed 

Devised 

Devoted 

Diagrammed 

Directed 

Displayed 

Distributed 

Edited 

Effected 

Elimated 

Employed

Established 

Evaluated 

Examined 

Expanded 

Expedited

Extended 

Focused 

Fortified 

Founded 

Generated

Guided 

Handled 

Implemented

Improved 

Incorporated 

Increased  

Influenced 

Initiated 

Installed

Instituted

Instructed 

Interpreted 

Introduced 

Launched

Led

Lectured  

Maintained 

Managed 

Modified

Monitored

Motivated 

Negotiated 

Observed 

Operated

Organized 

Oriented 

Originated 

Overhauled 

Participated

Performed 

Planned 

Pinpointed 

Prepared 

Presented 

Preserved 

Processed 

Produced

Programmed 

Proposed 

Provided 

Received 

Recruited 

Recommended 

Rectified 

Reduced 

Regulated 

Reinforced 

Reorganized 

Researched 

Reshaped 

Resolved 

Restored 

Reviewed 

Revised 

Scheduled 

Selected 

Set up 

Simplified 

Solved 

Streamlined

Structured

Supervided

Supported

Taught

Trained

Tutored

Volunteered

Worked

Wrote

Semester off-campus application process

Planning ahead is an important part of a semester off-campus. The steps outlined below will guide you through the preparation for a semester off-campus.

Applying for a semester off-campus is a 2-step process

1. Apply to DePauw for approval at offcampus.depauw.edu

2. Apply to your chosen program once approved by DePauw

Applications are submitted around a year in advance.

Applications for the Fall are submitted the Fall semester prior to the semester off-campus and applications for Spring, are submitted during the Spring semester prior to the semester off-campus. Applications open on the first day of classes each semester.

Last date for applications to be submitted:

• Fall programs - December 1

• Spring programs - March 1

Checklist for off-campus study application

Prepare

❏ Speak with your faculty advisor - this is the first thing to do when thinking about a semester off-campus to make sure you have an academic plan, both for before, during and after your proposed semester off-campus.

❏ Meet with an advisor in the Hubbard Center - to get an overview of the application process and to focus your planning.

❏ Declare your major ‐ In order to study for a semester off campus, you must declare a major. You may declare more than one as well as any minors you wish or change it at a later date, however it is required that you declare at least one major prior to completing the OCS application process.

❏ Search program options - Go to DePauw's off-campus application.

You can search by subject, country, language, semester & program features.

Take the time to reflect about what things you would like to see offered in a program. How will this specific program benefit you academically, professionally and personally? Do you want a personalized small liberal arts experience or to experience being part of a large institution? Do you want to be in a big city, small town or rural/remote area? Make sure to also evaluate some requirements of the program before you apply and make sure you meet the admission eligibility requirements and are aware of any deadlines for application.

❏ Complete distribution requirements - Applicants must have completed, or have a plan to complete, all distributional requirements (2 courses in Arts & Humanities, 2 courses in Social Sciences, and 2 courses in Natural Science and Mathematics) by the end of the sophomore year and prior to departure. Students must also have completed, or have a plan to complete, the following competency requirements:

❏ Writing (W) by the end of sophomore year

❏ Quantitative Reasoning (Q) by the end of junior year

❏ Spoken/Oral (S) by the end of senior year

Note that competencies and distribution requirements cannot be completed while off-campus.

Apply

❏ Choose your program at offcampus.depauw.edu - select the program you wish to apply to and click on “Apply Now” to start your application

❏ Faculty Recommendation Requests ‐ We recommend doing this first as you will need to ask faculty for recommendations and the faculty are under no obligation to submit the recommendation within a particular timeframe, however we recommend allowing at least three weeks for this (more at certain times of year e.g. exams, summer). References from staff, coaches or employers are not accepted. Recommendation requests are submitted via the off-campus application. These can be submitted after the application deadline, as long as they were requested before the deadline, but your application will not be reviewed until they are received.

You will need:

❏ 1 Recommendation from each major adviser

❏ 1 Recommendation from faculty member, may not be a major adviser

❏ 1 Language Recommendation if applicable, can be from major adviser. Required if studying in a location where the primary language is taught at DePauw (currently Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese & Spanish).

❏ Complete the Academic Pre‐Requisite Section of the Application ‐ Fill in your personal responses to the questions regarding prerequisites. You will need to find what the requirements are for your specific program and make sure that you meet them.

❏ Proposed Courses ‐ Review the website of the off-campus program you're considering and create a possible list of courses that you wish to take abroad. You are encouraged to talk with your academic advisor about which courses would benefit you. If these courses will contribute to any major/minor credit, please indicate this as well.

❏ Statement of Intent/Personal Statement ‐ This is one of the most important portions of your application. Your personal statement is your chance to think about and articulate why you would like to study off‐campus on your proposed program, how it fits into your academic and/or professional track and why it will be beneficial to you and/or the wider community. What interests you about the location and why is it relevant to you? Do research and have your personal statement reflect the research you have done.

❏ Read and Sign the Application Agreement ‐ Be sure to read the agreement completely before signing.

❏ Review Application ‐ Review all of the information you have submitted carefully and thoroughly

❏ Program Documents ‐ You are required to submit an electronically signed copy of the Liability Form.

❏ Budget ‐ Complete a preliminary budget in your DePauw application portal.

Budgeting for time abroad is an essential step in your preparation to study off campus. Your application contains a Program Cost Sheet, most of which you can edit to reflect your personal circumstances.

Submit!

❏ Approval - Once you've submitted your application, it will be reviewed by the Hubbard Center committee of faculty & staff to determine fit for the program, approximately three weeks after the application deadline. The application may be approved or denied or you might be requested to revise and re-submit the application or placed on a waitlist if applications exceed available places. Only one revision will be allowed. If approved you will be asked to submit further documentation as part of your DePauw application.

❏ Apply directly to your chosen program once approved by DePauw - If approved by DePauw, approval will be conditional upon being admitted by the program provider. Approval from DePauw does not guarantee admission to your chosen program. You should apply directly on the off-campus program provider website. If admitted, your off-campus program provider will then provide directly to you, all the practical pre-departure information you need e.g. arrival details, class registration, housing registration, immigration information etc.

Pre-departure orientation

Once approved for off-campus study, you are required to participate in DePauw's pre-departure orientation either in-person or online. If you miss a session, approval to study off-campus will be rescinded. Orientation sessions will address such things as course credit expectations, billing, how to register for classes while off-campus, and techniques that will be helpful in adapting well to the new environment and dealing with culture shock. They will also cover logistical topics, such as money, travel, and health and safety, as well as some site-specific information.

Scholarships ‐ Thanks to the generosity of DePauw alumni, scholarships are available for off-campus study. These are awarded automatically based on financial aid information provided to the University, as well as the specific criteria for each scholarship.

130 approved programs on 6 of 7 continents

Spend a semester studying, interning or carrying out research on one of over 130 programs in countries including Cuba, Kenya, Argentina, Thailand, Spain, France or England, all while getting graduation credit towards your major or minor, with many programs offering generous scholarships and, for most, your DePauw financial aid going with you.

Semester Programs

Emma Stemen - SIT Argentina

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Semester-Long Off-Campus study

Whether it's in the USA or abroad, includes an internship or just for credit, you can browse over 130 semester programs and apply now or read on for more information...

Since the 1930s, DePauw Tigers have studied off-campus all over world as part their undergraduate studies.

Thanks to opportunities with a variety of providers, DePauw offers off-campus programs in 45 countries across six continents with thousands of course offerings available for transfer back to DePauw.

Tuition fees and financial aid remain the same as on-campus for most programs, and with around 130 program options, and classes in every subject area, you can go off-campus and stay on track.

Benefits of Off-campus study

Semester-long programs allow for deep engagement in academic study, internship and research opportunities, and understanding of our interconnected world.

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers are seeking talent who can demonstrate soft skills, like problem solving, leadership, initiative, adaptability, and ability to work in teams and across difference. The global marketplace also demands knowledge of foreign markets, and foreign language ability is considered an added bonus.

Second-semester sophomores, juniors and first-semester seniors are eligible to study off-campus for a semester.

Where can I study?

Check out available programs at offcampus.depauw.edu to see locations in the USA, and abroad, where DePauw students have studied in the past.

DePauw Faculty-Led Off-campus Courses

International or domestic travel courses that let you take a deep-dive into academic subject matter in the context of a specific location.

Morocco: A Cultural OdysseyNext

You are invited to take part in a global learning experience with DePauw faculty and your fellow students. Each year DePauw offers approximately 20 faculty off-campus courses, covering diverse and interdisciplinary themes, in locations around the world. Recent course topics have included: Scientific Revolutions: Historical and Cultural Context; South Africa Life After Mandela; Japanese Culture, Technology and Design; Learn more about example courses, and browse a full list of current offerings, below.

Sample of Off-campus Winter/May Term Courses

For the full list of Off-Campus Winter & May Term Courses, see the University Course Listing. To apply visit DePauw's off-campus application.

Winter Term 2025

Take a look back at the DePauw faculty-led Winter Term off-campus programs from Winter Term 2025  

Many off-campus courses are offered for 0.5 DePauw credits. Financial aid is available to eligible students participating on all credit bearing (0.5 credits) courses and service-learning courses. Financial support is not available for non-credit bearing courses. Winter and May Term off-campus courses are offered for three weeks and include on-campus meeting and embedded travel. For additional program information, estimated cost and to apply, visit Depauw's off-campus application. Additional funding, through scholarships and grants, is limited and depends on the term.

How to Apply

Winter Term

• Applications Open - the Wednesday after Spring break

• Deadline - May 1

May Term

• Applications Open- the first day of classes Fall semester

• Deadline - December 1

Application

• Choose your program at offcampus.depauw.edu - select the program you wish to apply to and click on “Apply” to start your application

Complete the pre-decision section of the Application

• Agreement for Faculty Led Off Campus Study

• COVID-19 Traveler’s Information

• Faculty-Led Tuition Charges

• Off-Campus Study Liability form

• Traveling with Medication

• Statement of intent for Faculty-Led Off Campus Study

This is one of the most important portions of your application. Your personal statement is your chance to explain why you would like to study off‐campus and why it will be beneficial to you. Why is the location you are applying to the best possible option for you? Do research and have your personal statement reflect the research you have done.

• Submit your application

APPROVAL Process

Once you've submitted your application, it will be reviewed by the faculty leaders, which may approve or deny the application, approval is done on a rolling bases and courses may fill before the application deadline.

If approved you will need to complete the post acceptance section of the application no later than September 15.

Winter and May Term In Service

Founded in 1973, Winter and May Term in Service is one of DePauw’s longest continually running and most popular service-learning programs. During the Winter and May Terms, faculty, staff, and students partner with organizations addressing community-identified needs, with the purpose of working towards a long-term community-based goals.

Service-learning teams immerse themselves within host communities, living with host families, working in solidarity with community members on a variety of projects. Projects often align with course themes such as:

• Restorative Justices and Post-Conflict Reconciliation

• Global Health and Access to Care

• Community Resource Development

• Environmental Sustainability

Past projects have included: assisting in restoration projects, providing basic support at remote medical clinics, sports clinics with local children, public health education, and more.

Four Pillars of the program:

• Service

• Reflection

• Immersion

• Education

Lasting Partnerships for community-based service

• Companion Community Development Alternatives (CoCoDA), Central America: A nonprofit organization devoted to the mission of cooperating in projects for democratic, community-based social and economic development in Central America.

• PeacePlayers International, Belfast, Northern Ireland: A program that hosts a youth basketball tournament where students from diverse religious backgrounds are co-mingled on teams, with you as a coach, in an effort to resolve religious conflict in Belfast.

An Intellectual Narrative

Provides the reader with a sense of your priorities and judgement, allowing them to know you more personally.

The personal statement is just one, but very important, part of an application. Each personal statement must be tailored to each specific application. Pay close attention to the prompt, as some things you may include in a personal statement for one application may make more sense to include in another part of a different application. 

Writing & Editing Suggestions

• Keep your primary points brief and clear. Reviewers will likely skim your statement because of the volume they are reviewing.

• While addressing the prompt, be sure to keep to word or character limits.

• Your opening sentence should catch the reader's attending and last sentence pulls ideas in the essay together. Conclude with something specific and visionary.

• Be sure there is a thread connecting the different parts of the essay.

• Give specific, detailed examples to illustrate each of the points made. Make it relevant; if it's not, then it doesn't belong. 

• Be sure topic sentences [first sentence of each paragraph] lay out an idea that is then developed and illustrated by the following paragraph.

• Edit your statement. Have many people read your statements and provide feedback. Cut out unnecessary words and avoid cliches.

Brainstorming Your Essay

As you begin planning your essay, consider the following:

• What is special, unique or distinctive about you and your life story?

• What details n your life shaped you or influenced your goals?

• When did you become interested in this opportunity and what have you chosen to do to reinforce your conviction in pursuing this opportunity?

• What do you know about this field and how did you learn it?

• What are your career goals?

• Are there gaps or discrepancies in your academic record worth explaining?

• Have your made any mistakes or have any regrets that taught you something important about yourself?

• Why might you be more successful and effective in this opportunity than other applicants?

Tell your story: your qualification [Background, Skills, Experiences, Traits]

Demonstrate your fit or suitability:  Connect your story with your future, Show how the opportunity is essential for a bright, More successful future

Project your Future: Short Term[1-3 years], Long Term[5+ years]

Additional Resources:  Writing Personal Statements Online, Purdue OWL

Professional References

Get to know your faculty members and let them get to know you. They can write a specific, detailed letter that speaks to your accomplishments. You can build a relationship in a variety of ways:

• Attend office hours

• Talk with them about your areas of interest and future aspirations

• Ask them about their research

• Take more than one course from a faculty member whose work closely aligns with yours

• Consider conducting research with a faculty member

Request letters of recommendation at least a month in advance of the deadline, preferably 2-3 months in advance. You can send a reminder to the letter writer closer to the deadline.

Be professional in making the request, but don't feel awkward about it. Faculty members and former employers want to support their students. They are accustomed to writing letters of recommendation. Provide them with as much information as possible to help them write the letter and be sure to share information about your proposed program or activity. A draft of your statement of purpose, application, and copy of your resume is helpful, so they have a full picture of what they are supporting you for. Establishing a portfolio of your work is helpful to share, to refresh their recollection of your skills and abilities. 

Letters for Off-Campus Study, Graduate study, or a fellowship

Request letters from only faculty members. Letters from colleagues or employers should be requested in the very rare case when your proposed study is extremely well aligned.

Graduate School: Be proactive about gaps between when you graduate and when you apply to graduate school. The best letters of recommendations are from faculty who know you well. But because they teach hundreds of students, it is harder for them to write strong letters the longer it has been since you were in their classroom.  If you have a gap between graduation and applying, consider requesting the letters while you are still fresh in their memory and keeping them on file.

Letters for an internship or Job

Request letters from a combination of supervisors and faculty members. These individuals should be able to speak specifically to the work you have done and connect it to your proposed work.

Say thanks

Send a thank you note and update them on your progress. A good reference writer will be interested in your success. It will also help next time you might need a reference from that individual. 

Instrumental in describing your experiences and skills.

Proper use of action verbs can strengthen your resume and help it stand out. You can also Google search "action verb" for more ideas.

Accelerated

Accomplished

Achieved

Adapted

Administered

Aided

Allocated

Amplified

Analyzed

Answered

Appointed

Approved

Arbitrated

Arranged

Assisted

Assumed

 Augmented

Awarded

Began

Broadened 

Build 

 Circulated

Cataloged

Chaired 

Charted 

Complied 

Conceived 

Conducted 

Constructed 

Consulted 

Contracted 

Controlled 

Cooperated 

Coordinated 

Counseled 

Created 

Delegated 

Demonstrated 

Designed 

Determined 

Developed 

Devised 

Devoted 

Diagrammed 

Directed 

Displayed 

Distributed 

Edited 

Effected 

Elimated 

Employed

Established 

Evaluated 

Examined 

Expanded 

Expedited

Extended 

Focused 

Fortified 

Founded 

Generated

Guided 

Handled 

Implemented

Improved 

Incorporated 

Increased  

Influenced 

Initiated 

Installed

Instituted

Instructed 

Interpreted 

Introduced 

Launched

Led

Lectured  

Maintained 

Managed 

Modified

Monitored

Motivated 

Negotiated 

Observed 

Operated

Organized 

Oriented 

Originated 

Overhauled 

Participated

Performed 

Planned 

Pinpointed 

Prepared 

Presented 

Preserved 

Processed 

Produced

Programmed 

Proposed 

Provided 

Received 

Recruited 

Recommended 

Rectified 

Reduced 

Regulated 

Reinforced 

Reorganized 

Researched 

Reshaped 

Resolved 

Restored 

Reviewed 

Revised 

Scheduled 

Selected 

Set up 

Simplified 

Solved 

Streamlined

Structured

Supervided

Supported

Taught

Trained

Tutored

Volunteered

Worked

Wrote

Determine what programs interest you, help review for entrance exams and prepare for interviews.

Choosing a graduate program

You can learn about potential programs of interest in several ways: 

• Graduate School tabling events on-campus through the year

• Online research of various programs

• Speak with professors in your area of interest

• Meet with a Hubbard Center adviser

The degree you pursue depends on your interests and aspirations.

It is important to explore careers you are interested in so you can investigate the best approach. Talk with current professionals in  your field of interest, your professors, current graduate students in your chosen area and Hubbard Center advisers.

Be aware that many entry-level positions may not require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

In some industries, progress into higher level positions requires an advanced degree in additional to experience, while other a 4-year degree is sufficient.

Certain careers require an advanced degree and specialized training.

If you want to be a lawyer, doctor, college professor or librarian, for example, an advanced degree is necessary. Yet completing this degree (even from an elite institution) does not guarantee that you will secure your desired position.

Graduate study outside the U.S.

While some aspects of applying to an overseas program can be easier, you will need to spend more time researching funding, immigration requirements and living arrangements.

Some countries offer degree programs that are shorter in duration, saving time and money.

While this should not be the motivating factor, it can be a benefit if the content of the program is right for you.

Some schools outside of the United States accept U.S. federal student aid.

A list of these schools can be found on the www.studentaid.gov website, but you should always inquire to verify this with overseas schools you are considering.

Preparing for Graduate School

• Seek faculty mentors

• Take additional 300/400 level classes beyond the minimum

• Complete an independent research, scholarly or artistic project

• Develop a writing sample

• Begin working on your personal statement

• Start a portfolio of your work

• Prepare to take the graduate entrance exam

Financing Graduate School

The cost of an advanced degree and available funding varies widely across disciplines.

• Investigate the kind of financial support available in your targeted program. These could be teaching assistant-ships, fellowships, grants and other graduate student appointments. Contact the program directly to find out more about their resources.

• Once admitted to a program, inquire about additional funding. You can work to negotiate a better financial package, fellowship or teaching position. If you have multiple acceptances, you can leverage that in negotiations.

• Some competitive fellowships and awards fund graduate study. Review ones that may be relevant to your proposed area of study, or speak with the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Research & Fellowships.

Prepare for Graduate School

To prepare yourself to be successful in the graduate school process, here are some things to accomplish:

Seek faculty mentors. Professors are your best resources in helping you identify your personal and scholarly interests. They can supervise an independent writing or research project and write letters of recommendations for you, because they know you and your abilities.

Take additional 300/400 level classes beyond the minimum and at least one course requiring critical analysis.

Complete an independent research scholarly or artistic project. Demonstrate the initiative and follow-through, as well as the ability to do independent and thoughtful work.

Take courses that will fulfill, or help with fulfilling, the graduate program's degree requirements.

Develop a writing sample. Try to have the sample reflect questions, issues or work that relate to your area of study.

Begin to write your personal statement. Workshops and resources are available.

Start a portfolio of your work. Graduate programs and employers may ask to see your previous work.

Prepare to the graduate entrance exams. The Graduate Records Exam (GRE) is the most common entrance exam. Every school and program is different, so check with the program about all admissions requirements.

An Intellectual Narrative

Provides the reader with a sense of your priorities and judgement, allowing them to know you more personally.

The personal statement is just one, but very important, part of an application. Each personal statement must be tailored to each specific application. Pay close attention to the prompt, as some things you may include in a personal statement for one application may make more sense to include in another part of a different application. 

Writing & Editing Suggestions

• Keep your primary points brief and clear. Reviewers will likely skim your statement because of the volume they are reviewing.

• While addressing the prompt, be sure to keep to word or character limits.

• Your opening sentence should catch the reader's attending and last sentence pulls ideas in the essay together. Conclude with something specific and visionary.

• Be sure there is a thread connecting the different parts of the essay.

• Give specific, detailed examples to illustrate each of the points made. Make it relevant; if it's not, then it doesn't belong. 

• Be sure topic sentences [first sentence of each paragraph] lay out an idea that is then developed and illustrated by the following paragraph.

• Edit your statement. Have many people read your statements and provide feedback. Cut out unnecessary words and avoid cliches.

Brainstorming Your Essay

As you begin planning your essay, consider the following:

• What is special, unique or distinctive about you and your life story?

• What details n your life shaped you or influenced your goals?

• When did you become interested in this opportunity and what have you chosen to do to reinforce your conviction in pursuing this opportunity?

• What do you know about this field and how did you learn it?

• What are your career goals?

• Are there gaps or discrepancies in your academic record worth explaining?

• Have your made any mistakes or have any regrets that taught you something important about yourself?

• Why might you be more successful and effective in this opportunity than other applicants?

Tell your story: your qualification [Background, Skills, Experiences, Traits]

Demonstrate your fit or suitability:  Connect your story with your future, Show how the opportunity is essential for a bright, More successful future

Project your Future: Short Term[1-3 years], Long Term[5+ years]

Additional Resources:  Writing Personal Statements Online, Purdue OWL

Professional References

Get to know your faculty members and let them get to know you. They can write a specific, detailed letter that speaks to your accomplishments. You can build a relationship in a variety of ways:

• Attend office hours

• Talk with them about your areas of interest and future aspirations

• Ask them about their research

• Take more than one course from a faculty member whose work closely aligns with yours

• Consider conducting research with a faculty member

Request letters of recommendation at least a month in advance of the deadline, preferably 2-3 months in advance. You can send a reminder to the letter writer closer to the deadline.

Be professional in making the request, but don't feel awkward about it. Faculty members and former employers want to support their students. They are accustomed to writing letters of recommendation. Provide them with as much information as possible to help them write the letter and be sure to share information about your proposed program or activity. A draft of your statement of purpose, application, and copy of your resume is helpful, so they have a full picture of what they are supporting you for. Establishing a portfolio of your work is helpful to share, to refresh their recollection of your skills and abilities. 

Letters for Off-Campus Study, Graduate study, or a fellowship

Request letters from only faculty members. Letters from colleagues or employers should be requested in the very rare case when your proposed study is extremely well aligned.

Graduate School: Be proactive about gaps between when you graduate and when you apply to graduate school. The best letters of recommendations are from faculty who know you well. But because they teach hundreds of students, it is harder for them to write strong letters the longer it has been since you were in their classroom.  If you have a gap between graduation and applying, consider requesting the letters while you are still fresh in their memory and keeping them on file.

Letters for an internship or Job

Request letters from a combination of supervisors and faculty members. These individuals should be able to speak specifically to the work you have done and connect it to your proposed work.

Say thanks

Send a thank you note and update them on your progress. A good reference writer will be interested in your success. It will also help next time you might need a reference from that individual. 

Starting the applications after selecting schools to apply to.

Know your deadlines

Applications are often accepted in late December or early January for the following fall semester, but some schools have a "rolling admission" process or different application cycles, so be sure to get the deadlines and instructions from each school.

Prepare all documents

The following are typical admission materials, but you should check with each graduate program before proceeding:

• Application(s)- Complete and submit the application and all required materials on time. You can always ask questions directly of the graduate program. Be aware you may be asked to pay an application fee.  If that is a hardship, there may be scholarships or waivers available, so check with the graduate program admissions staff.

• Official transcripts- Request all transcripts from all universities attended. To request your DePauw transcript, visit the DePauw Registrar's Office.

• Writing to relevant faculty- Write to faculty at your chosen schools; let them know of your scholarly interests and read their published works. You can ask them questions about the program and their research, but keep it balanced between general inquiry and professional dialogue.

• Statement of purpose- Sometimes referred to as a personal statement, you should begin writing early and ask for lots of feedback on your writing. This is a critical piece of your application, so spending time to work on multiple drafts is necessary. Ask peers, faculty or other advisers to provide feedback.

• Critical writing sample- If requested, your writing sample should reflect your best work as it relates to what you want to pursue in your graduate program. 

• Entrance exam scores- Take the appropriate graduate entrance exams well in advance (e.g., GRE, MCAT, LSAT). Request your scores be sent to your schools of choice.

• Letters of recommendation- Request letter from faculty member who know you well enough to discuss your work and potential in detail. General statements about you doing well in a class or general reference to your GPA are not helpful.

• Curriculum vitae or resume- You also will need to submit your resume or CV that conveys the experience you’ve had so far. You can take advantage of on-campus leadership opportunities, Extended Studies offerings including community service and off-campus study, and job shadowing to create a well-rounded DePauw experience

• TA/fellowship application- You can apply for teaching assistantships or other available fellowship programs. There is usually a separate application for financial support opportunities.

An Intellectual Narrative

Provides the reader with a sense of your priorities and judgement, allowing them to know you more personally.

The personal statement is just one, but very important, part of an application. Each personal statement must be tailored to each specific application. Pay close attention to the prompt, as some things you may include in a personal statement for one application may make more sense to include in another part of a different application. 

Writing & Editing Suggestions

• Keep your primary points brief and clear. Reviewers will likely skim your statement because of the volume they are reviewing.

• While addressing the prompt, be sure to keep to word or character limits.

• Your opening sentence should catch the reader's attending and last sentence pulls ideas in the essay together. Conclude with something specific and visionary.

• Be sure there is a thread connecting the different parts of the essay.

• Give specific, detailed examples to illustrate each of the points made. Make it relevant; if it's not, then it doesn't belong. 

• Be sure topic sentences [first sentence of each paragraph] lay out an idea that is then developed and illustrated by the following paragraph.

• Edit your statement. Have many people read your statements and provide feedback. Cut out unnecessary words and avoid cliches.

Brainstorming Your Essay

As you begin planning your essay, consider the following:

• What is special, unique or distinctive about you and your life story?

• What details n your life shaped you or influenced your goals?

• When did you become interested in this opportunity and what have you chosen to do to reinforce your conviction in pursuing this opportunity?

• What do you know about this field and how did you learn it?

• What are your career goals?

• Are there gaps or discrepancies in your academic record worth explaining?

• Have your made any mistakes or have any regrets that taught you something important about yourself?

• Why might you be more successful and effective in this opportunity than other applicants?

Tell your story: your qualification [Background, Skills, Experiences, Traits]

Demonstrate your fit or suitability:  Connect your story with your future, Show how the opportunity is essential for a bright, More successful future

Project your Future: Short Term[1-3 years], Long Term[5+ years]

Additional Resources:  Writing Personal Statements Online, Purdue OWL

Professional References

Get to know your faculty members and let them get to know you. They can write a specific, detailed letter that speaks to your accomplishments. You can build a relationship in a variety of ways:

• Attend office hours

• Talk with them about your areas of interest and future aspirations

• Ask them about their research

• Take more than one course from a faculty member whose work closely aligns with yours

• Consider conducting research with a faculty member

Request letters of recommendation at least a month in advance of the deadline, preferably 2-3 months in advance. You can send a reminder to the letter writer closer to the deadline.

Be professional in making the request, but don't feel awkward about it. Faculty members and former employers want to support their students. They are accustomed to writing letters of recommendation. Provide them with as much information as possible to help them write the letter and be sure to share information about your proposed program or activity. A draft of your statement of purpose, application, and copy of your resume is helpful, so they have a full picture of what they are supporting you for. Establishing a portfolio of your work is helpful to share, to refresh their recollection of your skills and abilities. 

Letters for Off-Campus Study, Graduate study, or a fellowship

Request letters from only faculty members. Letters from colleagues or employers should be requested in the very rare case when your proposed study is extremely well aligned.

Graduate School: Be proactive about gaps between when you graduate and when you apply to graduate school. The best letters of recommendations are from faculty who know you well. But because they teach hundreds of students, it is harder for them to write strong letters the longer it has been since you were in their classroom.  If you have a gap between graduation and applying, consider requesting the letters while you are still fresh in their memory and keeping them on file.

Letters for an internship or Job

Request letters from a combination of supervisors and faculty members. These individuals should be able to speak specifically to the work you have done and connect it to your proposed work.

Say thanks

Send a thank you note and update them on your progress. A good reference writer will be interested in your success. It will also help next time you might need a reference from that individual. 

An Intellectual Narrative

Provides the reader with a sense of your priorities and judgement, allowing them to know you more personally.

The personal statement is just one, but very important, part of an application. Each personal statement must be tailored to each specific application. Pay close attention to the prompt, as some things you may include in a personal statement for one application may make more sense to include in another part of a different application. 

Writing & Editing Suggestions

• Keep your primary points brief and clear. Reviewers will likely skim your statement because of the volume they are reviewing.

• While addressing the prompt, be sure to keep to word or character limits.

• Your opening sentence should catch the reader's attending and last sentence pulls ideas in the essay together. Conclude with something specific and visionary.

• Be sure there is a thread connecting the different parts of the essay.

• Give specific, detailed examples to illustrate each of the points made. Make it relevant; if it's not, then it doesn't belong. 

• Be sure topic sentences [first sentence of each paragraph] lay out an idea that is then developed and illustrated by the following paragraph.

• Edit your statement. Have many people read your statements and provide feedback. Cut out unnecessary words and avoid cliches.

Brainstorming Your Essay

As you begin planning your essay, consider the following:

• What is special, unique or distinctive about you and your life story?

• What details n your life shaped you or influenced your goals?

• When did you become interested in this opportunity and what have you chosen to do to reinforce your conviction in pursuing this opportunity?

• What do you know about this field and how did you learn it?

• What are your career goals?

• Are there gaps or discrepancies in your academic record worth explaining?

• Have your made any mistakes or have any regrets that taught you something important about yourself?

• Why might you be more successful and effective in this opportunity than other applicants?

Tell your story: your qualification [Background, Skills, Experiences, Traits]

Demonstrate your fit or suitability:  Connect your story with your future, Show how the opportunity is essential for a bright, More successful future

Project your Future: Short Term[1-3 years], Long Term[5+ years]

Additional Resources:  Writing Personal Statements Online, Purdue OWL

Professional References

Get to know your faculty members and let them get to know you. They can write a specific, detailed letter that speaks to your accomplishments. You can build a relationship in a variety of ways:

• Attend office hours

• Talk with them about your areas of interest and future aspirations

• Ask them about their research

• Take more than one course from a faculty member whose work closely aligns with yours

• Consider conducting research with a faculty member

Request letters of recommendation at least a month in advance of the deadline, preferably 2-3 months in advance. You can send a reminder to the letter writer closer to the deadline.

Be professional in making the request, but don't feel awkward about it. Faculty members and former employers want to support their students. They are accustomed to writing letters of recommendation. Provide them with as much information as possible to help them write the letter and be sure to share information about your proposed program or activity. A draft of your statement of purpose, application, and copy of your resume is helpful, so they have a full picture of what they are supporting you for. Establishing a portfolio of your work is helpful to share, to refresh their recollection of your skills and abilities. 

Letters for Off-Campus Study, Graduate study, or a fellowship

Request letters from only faculty members. Letters from colleagues or employers should be requested in the very rare case when your proposed study is extremely well aligned.

Graduate School: Be proactive about gaps between when you graduate and when you apply to graduate school. The best letters of recommendations are from faculty who know you well. But because they teach hundreds of students, it is harder for them to write strong letters the longer it has been since you were in their classroom.  If you have a gap between graduation and applying, consider requesting the letters while you are still fresh in their memory and keeping them on file.

Letters for an internship or Job

Request letters from a combination of supervisors and faculty members. These individuals should be able to speak specifically to the work you have done and connect it to your proposed work.

Say thanks

Send a thank you note and update them on your progress. A good reference writer will be interested in your success. It will also help next time you might need a reference from that individual. 

Instrumental in describing your experiences and skills.

Proper use of action verbs can strengthen your resume and help it stand out. You can also Google search "action verb" for more ideas.

Accelerated

Accomplished

Achieved

Adapted

Administered

Aided

Allocated

Amplified

Analyzed

Answered

Appointed

Approved

Arbitrated

Arranged

Assisted

Assumed

 Augmented

Awarded

Began

Broadened 

Build 

 Circulated

Cataloged

Chaired 

Charted 

Complied 

Conceived 

Conducted 

Constructed 

Consulted 

Contracted 

Controlled 

Cooperated 

Coordinated 

Counseled 

Created 

Delegated 

Demonstrated 

Designed 

Determined 

Developed 

Devised 

Devoted 

Diagrammed 

Directed 

Displayed 

Distributed 

Edited 

Effected 

Elimated 

Employed

Established 

Evaluated 

Examined 

Expanded 

Expedited

Extended 

Focused 

Fortified 

Founded 

Generated

Guided 

Handled 

Implemented

Improved 

Incorporated 

Increased  

Influenced 

Initiated 

Installed

Instituted

Instructed 

Interpreted 

Introduced 

Launched

Led

Lectured  

Maintained 

Managed 

Modified

Monitored

Motivated 

Negotiated 

Observed 

Operated

Organized 

Oriented 

Originated 

Overhauled 

Participated

Performed 

Planned 

Pinpointed 

Prepared 

Presented 

Preserved 

Processed 

Produced

Programmed 

Proposed 

Provided 

Received 

Recruited 

Recommended 

Rectified 

Reduced 

Regulated 

Reinforced 

Reorganized 

Researched 

Reshaped 

Resolved 

Restored 

Reviewed 

Revised 

Scheduled 

Selected 

Set up 

Simplified 

Solved 

Streamlined

Structured

Supervided

Supported

Taught

Trained

Tutored

Volunteered

Worked

Wrote

Doctor of Medicine, M.D.

A system in which medical doctors and other healthcare professionals (such as nurses, pharmacists, and therapists) treat symptoms and diseases using drugs, radiation, or surgery.

For descriptions of this profession, see: Aspiring Docs at the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Length of Program

Medical School: 4 years

Residency: 3-7 years

Fellowships: 1-3 years

Course Requirements

Schools may require English, cell biology, genetics, math, and/or other courses. Check directly with those schools.

SUGGESTED COURSES:Medical School Admission Requirements

1 Year of General Biology

Biology 101

Molecules, Genes and Cells

Biology 102

Evolution, Organisms & Ecology

1 Year of General Chemistry

Chemistry 130

Structure & Properties of Inorganic Compounds w/ Lab

Chemistry 170

Stoichiometric Calculations

Chemistry 260

Thermodynamics, Equilibrium & Kinetics w/ Lab

1 Year Organic Chemistry

Chemistry 120

Structure & Properties of Organic Molecules w/ Lab

Chemistry 310

Enzyme Mechanics

1 Year Physics

Physics 120

Principles of Physics I w/ Lab

Physics 130

Principles of Physics II w/ Lab

1 Semester Biochemistry

Chemistry 240

Structure & Function of Biomolecules w/ Lab

Introductory Psychology & Sociology

Psychology 100

Introductory Psychology

Any social science course 100 Level

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by end of junior year; Apply summer before senior year.

For Gap Year: Prerequisite courses completed by end of senior year; Apply summer after senior year.

Application Service

American Medical College Application Service

• Available in early May

• Submission date opens beginning of June

• Early decision deadline including transcript deadline August 1

• Regular MD programs range from August through December

Standardized Test

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): Take after biology, all chemistry, physics, psychology, sociology and biochemistry courses are completed.

The MCAT has four sections (Scale 118-132): Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems, Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems; Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behavior, and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills. The test takes approximately 7.5 hours to complete and is offered about 25 times throughout the year. See the website for the schedule and registration dates. Fee assistance my be available, so check with the Hubbard Center. You receive your scores 30-35 days after the test.

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• Association of American Medical Colleges

• Check with the Hubbard Center

• Reserved books at Roy O. West Library

• Practice test (first one free)

• MCAT Essentials

Admissions Criteria

• Overall and science GPA- Check MSAR for numbers.

• MCAT scores- Check MSAR for numbers

• Extracurricular activities

• Medically-related experience

• Research experience

• Community service

• Leadership experiences

• Letters of recommendation- Often including one from the Health Professions Adviser

• Interview

• Personal statement

Additional Resources

General:

• Student National Medical Association

• American Medical Association

• Summer Health Professions Education Program

• Summer Enrichment Programs

• Summer Undergraduate Research Programs

• Student Doctor Network

MCAT:

• The Official Guide to the MCAT Exam

• The Official MCAT Self-Assessment Package

Doctor of Chiropractic, D.C.

For descriptions of this profession, see: What is Chiropractic section of the Association of Chiropractic Colleges or Explore Health Careers

Length of Program

Typical chiropractic programs are 4 years.

Course Requirements

Schools may require English, cell biology, genetics, math, social sciences, humanities and/or other courses. Check directly with those schools and the Association of Chiropractic Colleges.

SUGGESTED COURSES

1 Year of General Biology

Biology 101

Molecules, Genes and Cells

Biology 102

Evolution, Organisms & Ecology

1 Year of General Chemistry

Chemistry 130

Structure & Properties of Inorganic Compounds w/ Lab

Chemistry 170

Stoichiometric Calculations

Chemistry 260

Thermodynamics, Equilibrium & Kinetics w/ Lab

1 Year Organic Chemistry

Chemistry 120

Structure & Properties of Organic Molecules w/ Lab

Chemistry 310

Enzyme Mechanics

1 Year Physics

Physics 120

Principles of Physics I w/ Lab

Physics 130

Principles of Physics II w/ Lab

1 Semester Biochemistry

Chemistry 240

Structure & Function of Biomolecules w/ Lab

Introductory Psychology 

Psychology 100

Introductory Psychology

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; although, preference may be given to applicants who complete the required courses sooner. Apply during the fall semester of senior year.

Application Service

Chiropractic Centralized Application Service (ChrioCAS)

• Each school selects an application deadline, so confirm the deadline with the school.

• Schools not participating in ChiroCAS, apply directly to the school.

• Apply early! Do not wait until the application deadline.

Standardized Test

Many chiropractic schools do not require any standardized test for admission. However, depending on the school the Chiropractic College Aptitude Test (CCAT) may be required.

Chiropractic College Aptitude Test (CCAT): Take after biology, all chemistry, physics and mathematics courses are completed.

The CCAT has 100 multiple choice questions. The test takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Register for the CCAT through the Enrollment Office at a chiropractic college. You receive your scores immediately upon completion of the test. 

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• National Board of Chiropractic Examiners

• Check with the Hubbard Center

Admissions Criteria

• Overall and science GPA

• Extracurricular activities

• Medically-related experience

• Research experience

• Community service

• Leadership experiences

• Letters of recommendation- Often including one from the Health Professions Adviser

• Interview

• Personal statement

Additional Resources

General:

• The Council on Chiropractic Education

• American Chiropractic Association

Doctor of Dental Surgery, D.D.S.

Treating diseases and other conditions that affect the teeth and gums.

For descriptions of this profession, see: GoDental or Explore Health Careers

Length of Program

Dental School: 4 years

Specialties (i.e. orthodontics) require additional education after dental school is complete.

Course Requirements

Schools may require English, cell biology, genetics, math, social sciences, humanities and/or other courses. Check directly with those schools and the AEDA Official Guide to Dental School.

SUGGESTED COURSES

1 Year of General Biology

Biology 101

Molecules, Genes and Cells

Biology 102

Evolution, Organisms & Ecology

1 Year of General Chemistry

Chemistry 130

Structure & Properties of Inorganic Compounds w/ Lab

Chemistry 170

Stoichiometric Calculations

Chemistry 260

Thermodynamics, Equilibrium & Kinetics w/ Lab

1 Year Organic Chemistry

Chemistry 120

Structure & Properties of Organic Molecules w/ Lab

Chemistry 310

Enzyme Mechanics

1 Year Physics

Physics 120

Principles of Physics I w/ Lab

Physics 130

Principles of Physics II w/ Lab

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of junior year; apply the summer before senior year.

For Gap Year: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; apply summer after senior year.

Application Service

American Association of Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS)

• Available in June

• Each school selects an application deadline, so confirm the deadline with the school.

• Apply early! Do not wait until the application deadline.

Standardized Test

Dental Admission Test (DAT): Take after biology, all chemistry and physics courses are completed.

The DAT has four sections: Survey of the Natural Sciences (Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry), Perceptual Ability, Reading Comprehension and Quantitative Reasoning. The test takes approximately 5 hours to complete and is given virtually daily at Prometric Testing centers. Register for the online. You receive your scores immediately upon completion of the test. 

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• American Dental Association

• Check with the Hubbard Center

Admissions Criteria

• Overall and science GPA, check AEDA Official Guide for details

• DAT scores, check AEDA Official Guide for details

• Extracurricular activities

• Dentistry-related experience

• Research experience

• Community service

• Leadership experiences

• Letters of recommendation- Often including one from a dentist

• Interview

• Personal statement

Additional Resources

General:

• American Student Dental Association

• Summer Medical and Dental Education Program

• Student Doctor Network

Degrees Vary from Bachelor's to Doctorate

Encompasses the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and care of physically ill, mentally ill, and disabled people of all ages, in all health care and other community settings.

For descriptions of this profession, see: Students section of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing or Explore Health Careers

Degree Obtained

Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BSN

Master of Science in Nursing, MSN : Master of Nursing, MN

Doctorate in Nursing Science, DNS : Doctorate in Nursing Practice, DNP

Length of Program

Accelerated BSN programs are typically 12-18 months

Accelerated, entry-level MSN programs are typically 3 years

Career Options

You can complete an accelerated program for adults with baccalaureate degrees in a field other than nursing. Consult the Students section of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing for a list of accelerated BSN and MSN programs.

Clinicians at the MSN level (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse)

• Nurse Practitioners

• Clinical Nurse Specialists

• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists

• Certified Nurse-Midwives

A DNP will likely be the standard for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in the future.

Course Requirements

The general course requirements for nursing vary depending on the program. Check directly with the school's website and Students section of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing to determine the prerequisite courses. 

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; although, preference may be given to applicants who complete the required courses sooner. Apply fall of senior year.

Application Service

Nursing's Centralized Application Service (NursingCAS)

• Available continuously

• Submission date opens in October

• Schools not participating in NursingCAS, apply directly to the school.

Standardized Test

Typically the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required, but can vary by school.

The GRE has three sections: Verbal Reasoning (Score 130-170), Quantitative Reasoning (130-170), and Analytical Writing (Score 0-6). The test takes approximately 4 hours to complete and is offered year-round at computer based test centers. You can register online. Unofficial scores are give on test day, with official scores available in 10-15 days.

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• ETS

• Check with the Hubbard Center

Admissions Criteria

• Overall and science GPA

• GRE scores

• Health-related experience

• Community service

• Leadership experiences

• Letters of recommendation

Additional Resources

General:

• American Association of Nurse Practitioners

• National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists

• American Association of Nurse Anesthetists

• American College of Nurse-Midwives

• DiscoverNursing

• AllNursingSchools

Doctor of Optometry, O.D.

Examine the eyes for visual defects and prescribing corrective lenses.

For descriptions of this profession, see: For Applicants and Advisors section and Optometry: A Career Guide section of the Association of Schools of Optometry or Explore Health Careers

Length of Program

Optometry School: 4 years

Residency: Optional 1 year

Course Requirements

Schools may require English, cell biology, genetics, math, social sciences, humanities and/or other courses. Check directly with those schools and the Schools and Colleges of Optometry. 

Suggested Courses

1 Year of General Biology

Biology 101

Molecules, Genes and Cells

Biology 102

Evolution, Organisms & Ecology

1 Year of General Chemistry

Chemistry 130

Structure & Properties of Inorganic Compounds w/ Lab

Chemistry 170

Stoichiometric Calculations

Chemistry 260

Thermodynamics, Equilibrium & Kinetics w/ Lab

1 Year Organic Chemistry

Chemistry 120

Structure & Properties of Organic Molecules w/ Lab

Chemistry 310

Enzyme Mechanics

1 Year Physics

Physics 120

Principles of Physics I w/ Lab

Physics 130

Principles of Physics II w/ Lab

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of junior year; Apply summer before senior year.

For Gap Year: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; Apply summer after senior year.

Application Service

Optometry Centralized Application Service (OptomCAS)

• Available July 1

• Submission date opens July 1

• Deadlines vary by school and range from December through May.

• Schools not participating in OptomCAS, apply directly to the school.

• Apply early! Do not wait until the application deadline.

Standardized Test

Optometry Admission Test (OAT): Take after biology, all chemistry, and physics courses are completed.

The OAT has four sections (Scale 200-400, with a national average of 300): Survey of the Natural Sciences (Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry), Reading Comprehension, Physics, and Quantitative Reasoning. The test takes approximately 280 minutes to complete and is offered virtually every day of the year. See the website to register. You receive your scores immediately upon completion of the test.

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry

• Check with the Hubbard Center

Admissions Criteria

• Overall and science GPA

• OAT scores

• Extracurricular activities

• Optometry-related experience

• Research experience

• Community service

• Leadership experiences

• Letters of recommendation- Often including one from the Health Professions Adviser

• Interview

• Personal statement

Additional Resources

General:

• American Academy of Optometry

• American Optometric Association

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, D.O.

Hands-on diagnosis and treatment through a system of treatment known as osteopathic manipulative medicine.

For descriptions of this profession, see: Become a Doctor - The Path to Becoming an Osteopathic Medical Doctor | AACOM, or Explore Health Careers

Length of Program

Medical School: 4 years

Residency: 3-7 years

Fellowships: 1-3 years

Course Requirements

Schools may require English, cell biology, genetics, math, and/or other courses. Check directly with those schools and the Osteopathic Medical College Information Book.

Suggested Courses

1 Year of General Biology

Biology 101

Molecules, Genes and Cells

Biology 102

Evolution, Organisms & Ecology

1 Year of General Chemistry

Chemistry 130

Structure & Properties of Inorganic Compounds w/ Lab

Chemistry 170

Stoichiometric Calculations

Chemistry 260

Thermodynamics, Equilibrium & Kinetics w/ Lab

1 Year Organic Chemistry

Chemistry 120

Structure & Properties of Organic Molecules w/ Lab

Chemistry 310

Enzyme Mechanics

1 Year Physics

Physics 120

Principles of Physics I w/ Lab

Physics 130

Principles of Physics II w/ Lab

1 Semester Biochemistry

Chemistry 240

Structure & Function of Biomolecules w/ Lab

Introductory Psychology & Sociology

Psychology 100

Introductory Psychology

Any social science course 100 Level

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of junior year; Apply summer before senior year.

For Gap Year: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; Apply summer after senior year.

Application Service

American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine

• Available in early May

• Submission date opens beginning of June

• Early decision deadline including transcript deadline August 1

Standardized Test

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): Take after biology, all chemistry, physics, psychology, sociology and biochemistry courses are completed.

The MCAT has four sections (Scale 118-132): Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems, Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems; Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behavior, and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills. The test takes approximately 7.5 hours to complete and is offered about 25 times throughout the year. See the website for the schedule and registration dates. Fee assistance my be available, so check with the Hubbard Center. You receive your scores 30-35 days after the test.

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• Association of American Medical Colleges

• Check with the Hubbard Center

• Reserved books at Roy O. West Library

• Practice test (first one free)

• MCAT Essentials

Admissions Criteria

• Overall and science GPA

• MCAT scores

• Extracurricular activities

• Medically-related experience

• Research experience

• Community service

• Leadership experiences

• Knowledge of and commitment to osteopathic medicine

• Letters of recommendation- Often including a letter from a D.O. and one from the Health Professions Adviser

• Interview

• Personal statement

Additional Resources

General:

• American Osteopathic Association

• Student Osteopathic Medical Association

• Student National Medical Association

• American Medical Association

• American Medical Student Association

• Summer Health Professions Education Program

• Summer Enrichment Programs

• Summer Undergraduate Research Programs

• Student Doctor Network

MCAT:

• The Official Guide to the MCAT Exam

• The Official MCAT Self-Assessment Package

Doctor of Pharmacy, PharmD

Licensed to prepare and dispense drugs and medicines.

For descriptions of this profession, see: Student Center section under Resources tab on the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy or Explore Health Careers

Length of Program

Pharmacy School: 4 academic years are completed in 3 calendar years

Course Requirements

Schools may require natural sciences, math, social sciences, humanities and/or other courses. Check directly with those schools and the Pharmacy School Admission Requirements (PSAR). 

Suggested Courses

1 Year of General Biology

Biology 101

Molecules, Genes and Cells

Biology 102

Evolution, Organisms & Ecology

1 Year of General Chemistry

Chemistry 130

Structure & Properties of Inorganic Compounds w/ Lab

Chemistry 170

Stoichiometric Calculations

Chemistry 260

Thermodynamics, Equilibrium & Kinetics w/ Lab

1 Year Organic Chemistry

Chemistry 120

Structure & Properties of Organic Molecules w/ Lab

Chemistry 310

Enzyme Mechanics

1 Year Physics

Physics 120

Principles of Physics I w/ Lab

Physics 130

Principles of Physics II w/ Lab

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by fall of senior year; Apply summer before senior year.

For Gap Year: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; Apply summer after senior year.

Application Service

Pharmacy College Application Service (PharmCAS)

• Available June 1

• Deadlines vary by school and range from November through March.

• Schools not participating in PharmCAS, apply directly to the school.

• Apply early! Do not wait until the application deadline.

Standardized Test

Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT): Is required by two-thirds of pharmacy schools in the nation. 

The PCAT has six sections (Scale 200-600): Verbal Ability, Quantitative Ability, Biology, Chemistry, Reading Comprehension and Writing. The test takes approximately 4 hours to complete and is offered many times throughout the year (July, September, October, November and January). See the website for a schedule and registration. You will receive your scores about five weeks after the exam.

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• Pharmacy College Admission Test

  • Candidate Information Booklet

  • Practice Tests

• Check with the Hubbard Center

Admissions Criteria

• Overall and science GPA, Check the PSAR for numbers

• OAT scores, Check the PSAR for numbers

• Extracurricular activities

• Health-related experience

• Research experience

• Community service

• Leadership experiences

• Letters of recommendation

• Interview

Additional Resources

General:

• American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy

• American Pharmacists Association

Degrees Vary from Master's to Doctorate

Help injured or ill people improve their movement and manage their pain, through therapeutic exercise and functional training.

For descriptions of this profession, see: Prospective Students section of the American Physical Therapy Association or Explore Health Careers

Degree Obtained

Master of Physical Therapy, M.P.T : Master of Science, M.S.

Doctor of Physical Therapy, D.P.T

Length Of Program

Varies by school

Doctoral programs: 3-5 years, 96% of schools offer DPT programs

Course Requirements

Schools may require human anatomy and physiology, statistics, psychology and/or other courses. Check directly with those schools and the American Physical Therapy Association

SUGGESTED COURSES

1 Year of General Biology

Biology 101

Molecules, Genes and Cells

Biology 102

Evolution, Organisms & Ecology

1 Year of General Chemistry

Chemistry 130

Structure & Properties of Inorganic Compounds w/ Lab

Chemistry 170

Stoichiometric Calculations

Chemistry 260

Thermodynamics, Equilibrium & Kinetics w/ Lab

1 Year Physics

Physics 120

Principles of Physics I w/ Lab

Physics 130

Principles of Physics II w/ Lab

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; although, preference may be given to applicants who complete the required courses sooner. Apply the summer between junior and senior years.

Application Service

Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service (PTCAS)

• Available July 1

• Deadlines for applications vary by school from October through May.

• Schools not participating in PTCAS, apply directly to the school.

• Apply early! Do not wait until the application deadline.

Standardized Test

Usually the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) revised General Test, but can vary by school.

The GRE has three sections: Verbal Reasoning (Score 130-170), Quantitative Reasoning (130-170), and Analytical Writing (Score 0-6). The test takes approximately 4 hours to complete and is offered year-round at computer based test centers. You can register online. Unofficial scores are give on test day, with official scores available in 10-15 days.

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• ETS

• Check with the Hubbard Center

Admissions Criteria

• GPA

• GRE scores

• Letters of recommendation

• PT-related experience, check with each school on the specific hours required

• Interpersonal, communication, problem solving, critical thinking, and leadership skills

Most award a Master's degree

Medical providers who are licensed to diagnose and treat illness and disease and to prescribe medication for patients.

For descriptions of this profession, see: Admissions section of the Physician Assistant Education Association or Explore Health Careers.

Length Of Program

Varies by school, but typically programs last 2 years.

Course Requirements

Requirements vary by school. You can check the Physician Assistant Programs Directory. Generally, the coursework should include general biology, general chemistry, and sometimes organic chemistry, physics, human anatomy and physiology, statistics, social sciences, and humanities.

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; although, preference may be given to applicants who complete the required courses sooner. Apply summer between junior and senior years.

Application Service

Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA)

• Available mid-April

• Each school selects an application deadline, typically ranging from August through July. Confirm the deadline with the school.

• For schools not participating in CASPA, apply directly to the school.

• Apply early! Do not wait until the application deadline.

Standardized Test

Usually the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) revised General Test, but can vary by school.

The GRE has three sections: Verbal Reasoning (Score 130–170), Quantitative Reasoning (130–170), and Analytical Writing (Score 0–6). The test takes approximately 4 hours to complete and is offered year-round at computer-based test centers. You can register online. Unofficial scores are given on test day, with official scores available in 10–15 days.

Free and low-cost preparation materials:

• ETS

• Check with the Hubbard Center

Admissions Criteria

• GPA – check the Physician Assistant Programs Directory for numbers

• GRE scores – check the Physician Assistant Programs Directory

• Personal statement

• Letters of recommendation

• Health-related experience (500–2000 hours); type and amount vary greatly by school – check the Physician Assistant Programs Directory

• Interpersonal, communication, problem solving, critical thinking, and leadership skills

• Sincere desire to enter a helping healthcare profession

Additional Resources

General:

• American Academy of Physician Assistants

• PA Shadow Online

Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, D.P.M.

Diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and related structures of the leg.

For descriptions of this profession, see: Career Zone section of the American Association of College of Podiatric Medicine or Explore Health Careers

Length of Program

Podiatry School: 4 years

Residency: 3 years

Course Requirements

Schools may require English, cell biology, genetics, math, anatomy, neurobiology and/or other courses. Check directly with those schools and the Medical School Admission Requirements.

SUGGESTED COURSES

1 Year of General Biology

Biology 101

Molecules, Genes and Cells

Biology 102

Evolution, Organisms & Ecology

1 Year of General Chemistry

Chemistry 130

Structure & Properties of Inorganic Compounds w/ Lab

Chemistry 170

Stoichiometric Calculations

Chemistry 260

Thermodynamics, Equilibrium & Kinetics w/ Lab

1 Year Organic Chemistry

Chemistry 120

Structure & Properties of Organic Molecules w/ Lab

Chemistry 310

Enzyme Mechanics

1 Year Physics

Physics 120

Principles of Physics I w/ Lab

Physics 130

Principles of Physics II w/ Lab

1 Semester Biochemistry

Chemistry 240

Structure & Function of Biomolecules w/ Lab

Introductory Psychology & Sociology

Psychology 100

Introductory Psychology

Any social science course 100 Level

Application Timeline

For admittance directly after DePauw: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of junior year; Apply summer before senior year.

For Gap Year: Prerequisite courses completed by the end of senior year; Apply summer after senior year.

Application Service

American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine Application Service (AACPMAS)

• Available August 1

• Submission date opens mid-August

• Deadlines for priority consideration are April 1

• Final application deadline is June 30 for fall admission of the same year