Some hints for preparing an application:
Below we have listed some important information regarding the general process of filling out
applications.
Application Review Process
We are often asked how we will choose the people who are accepted into the Caribbean
Marine Biology seminar/field trip course. We thought we might indicate what we look for in an
application and how we review them so that you can think about your application accordingly.
First, some people are sensitive to possible rejection and would rather not apply, fearing
their application might not be accepted. The first test question to be passed is, "was an
application submitted?" We can assure you that those who fail to submit applications will not go.
Science is filled with situations where you must apply. It is a good idea to get use to the process
early and to approach it with a positive attitude. The more applications you submit, the easier it
becomes.
In the applications, we look first to see that minimum criteria are met; does the person
have a year of college biology by the time of the trip (there is some flexibility here depending
upon their other course work and qualifications), is the GPA equal to or greater than 2.00. A
negative on any of these disqualifies the person from further consideration.
We then look over the resume and transcript to begin to develop an idea of who the
person is. A reading of the essay quickly follows this. In the essay we look for whether the
person's reasons for wanting to go are consistent with our reason for offering the field trip. We
then look at what the person says that they can bring to the trip and what contributions the
person says they can make to the success of the course and field trip. What are your interests,
are there examples of how you are a team player, and what you hope to give as well as receive
as a member of the travel course? At this point one of the following temporary mental scores is
given: 1) definitely a person to consider, 2) maybe we should consider, and 3) not inclined to
consider application further. These scores are confirmed by reading the letters of
recommendation, and sometimes our ideas change.
The course instructors then rank the top 15 applications (note, we strive to have
freshmen through seniors in the list). We compare our numbered lists, many names are likely to
be the same but some may be different. We will reread those on which we differ and try to make
up our minds about who to accept, paying attention to year in school. We will then contact (via
email) these top applicants to arrange for interviews. Finally, after the interviews, we will have a
list of 12 who are accepted into the seminar/field trip and 3 alternatives who might be called on if
anyone drops out. When we have a final list, we look once more at those who were not
accepted to make sure we have not overlooked something. We then inform everyone of our final
decisions.
To complete their applications, those accepted will have to submit a deposit and also
provide additional detailed information: health insurance and health forms, sign a memorandum
of understanding, emergency contact information, etc. Those selected for the course will be
registered for Biol 394a (section HN), the seminar and Biol 394b, the field trip. During Spring
semester we will meet at a mutually agreed upon time. Other than a few emails, not much else
will happen until Spring semester starts.
Notes on choosing referees
Choose people who know you well to write letters of recommendation. Referees should
not be family members or personal friends/room mates. We prefer ISU faculty members, but this
is not absolutely necessary. People outside the university should be people in positions of
responsibility who have observed your work/volunteer efforts/or taught a class that you took.
Realize that most referees will need at least 1-2 weeks to get a letter written and sent.
1
Some hints for preparing an application:
Advice to freshmen
We recognize that freshmen may have a difficult time putting together an application
because they do not have a university record and contacts. Freshmen really have to spend
some time on the essay to capture our imagination. Share the essay with your referees so that
they can comment on your abilities and goals as well. We will be looking for promise and
internal consistency in your application. Basically we need to answer the question, "how will this
person contribute to the success of the field trip?" We assure you that some freshmen will get to
go.
A final piece of advice
Write a draft of your essay. Put it away until the following week and then re-read it then,
but not in between. You may want to make substantial changes. You may wish to wait another
few days. Read it again and make the final changes. Submit your application early, but no later
than the deadline.
Virtual tour of Caribbean Marine Biology
On another matter, check out the Caribbean Marine Biology field trip homepage at:
http://dssakagu.public.iastate.edu/Sakaguchi/classes/394.html. Together with the photos, past
reports and itineraries, you or your parents can get an excellent idea of what we will be doing
and where during this exciting adventure.
2