Tips On The Gilman Application Process

 First and foremost, Start early!!!

• Do not leave everything to the last minute.

When working on your SOP (Statement of Purpose), make sure it is intentional and meaningful. Make sure this essay speaks on your unique experience and how this program will help elevate your personal and professional growth going forward.

• Be very specific on why you chose the program you did. Talk about What this program offers you. What will you be learning specifically, and how will this contribute to your growth both personally and professionally 
• Example: if you are a communications major, speak on how your communication skills will broaden during the program as it will make you more adaptable culturally 
• Speak about the networking opportunities you will gain - go a step further and elaborate on how, where, and when you will find these opportunities. (Think about your free time and opportunities to mingle with professionals in a way that respects their time.) 
• Think about the global perspective you will gain abroad - How will this expand your professional goals?

When working on your "Citizen Diplomat" essay, make sure to speak about your abilities to be culturally aware of culture and customs. (What do you plan to do to prepare yourself to navigate their customs and politics better?)

• • • • • How do you possibly plan to diminish any stereotypes that Americans are known for?
        • Think of what extracurricular activities you plan to do that will add to your cultural experience of the country or add to your professional growth.
        • Think about being a responsible tourist.
        • Think about what important or unique parts of yourself you are bringing abroad. (Sometimes, people abroad have preconceived notions of what an "American" should look like. How do you show that America is, in fact, a diverse place?

For the "Follow on Service Project," remember you can be as creative as possible. Use your strengths to give back; possibly, your strengths are tied to your major.

• • • • • If you are an arts major, maybe you want to show your efforts to give back through art.
        • If you are a journalist major, maybe you'd like to give back by writing a piece on your study abroad experience and applying for Gilman while getting it published in your school newspaper.
        • If you are a psych major that is interested in research, maybe you want to do a literature review or research project on the happiness and well-being of studying abroad.

*Tailor this to you and your strengths! 

Lastly, go to the writing center. Utlilize your resources! Run your essay over anyone that will take a look. Ask your professors, friends and family to give you feedback. CSUF offers many resources so make sure you are utilizing them and have faith in yourself.