Applying to Graduate Programs

The following are tips for different components of typical graduate school applications.

Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your chance to introduce yourself to the schools beyond listing your resume, GPA, GRE, etc. It should be autobiographical by highlighting the major experiences that have prepared you for school, and just as importantly, it should explain how that particular program would be a good fit for you. Each program is different and requires a tailored personal statement (and application). How are you prepared for graduate school and a professional career in art conservation? Ask people to proofread your statement! Remember, this is your opportunity to impress the review committee; you don’t want typos letting you down.

Writing Sample

Some programs may require a writing sample. The writing sample proves that you can concisely and effectively articulate your point. These are important skills to have when writing condition and treatment reports. There is no minimum or maximum length since reviewers most likely will skim them to get a feel for your writing style.

Recommendations

For conservation recommendations, choose someone whom you feel witnessed your hand skills and work ethic, and got to know your personality. For academic recommendations, choose someone whom you feel is familiar with your work and knows about your goals of becoming a professional conservator. Choose people that you feel comfortable asking. If you’re unsure about someone, approach her by asking if she thinks that you’re ready to apply. **Be sure to give your recommenders plenty of time to write, keeping in mind that the holiday season is right before the North American graduate school applications are due. The Education and Training Committee (ETC) compiled guides for requesting and writing letters of reference. The guides can be found on the ETC page of the AIC website.

Artwork (photographed examples)

Your artwork should reflect your developed dexterity and can range from oil paintings and hand-bound books to sculpture and cross-stitch. Be sure that drawings and paintings are representational and/or precise, not gestural abstract designs, so you can demonstrate your hand skills. If you can’t take photographs at your pre-program site, just do your best to take professional-looking photographs at home. Improvise!

Additional Materials

Although tempting to send one more recommendation or some portfolio pages, only submit the required documents and information. There is not enough time for schools to read extras; they won’t, and it will have been a complete waste of your time. Spend that time proofreading your documents or beginning your portfolio.

Portfolio

Portfolios are not usually required alongside the application and instead are presented during the in-person interview. Your portfolio is a reflection of your work and as such, it changes as you progress in your career. See the Portfolios section for information on your evolving portfolio.

Prerequisite Courses

Most conservation programs require that you take a number of courses in chemistry, studio art, and material culture studies (e.g. art history, anthropology, archeology) prior to applying. This typically includes two semesters of general chemistry and can include organic chemistry or other science courses. It is typical for a variety of studio art classes (in 2D and 3D media) to be required. It is important to check the exact requirements of the program you are applying to, as they all have a slightly different list of prerequisite courses.