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Don’t use overused phrases.
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Don't just say: Instead of stating facts, illustrate them through stories or examples.
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Limit themes: Choose two or three key themes then explore them deeply rather than spreading yourself thin.
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Use proper transitions: Make sure your essay flows smoothly from one idea to the next.
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Value every sentence: Review each sentence. If a word/sentence doesn’t provide value to the reader, just remove this!
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Start & Finish Stronger: Introduction and Conclusion are crucial. Make a powerful first impression and leave a lasting impact.
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Avoid arrogance: Be confident but humble in your writing.
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Limit paragraphs: Keep the essay concise with fewer than 12 paragraphs for a 650 word.
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Introduce topics properly: Start new paragraphs with a clear topic sentence. "Avoid starting with Pronouns."
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Improve vocabulary: Use a varied vocabulary but don’t overcomplicate. Keep the language natural.
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Use examples: Back up your points with concrete examples and stories.
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Evoke emotion: Aim to make the reader feel something. Memorable essays often resonate emotionally.
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Show your impact: Don’t just say you made a big impact. Use Numbers or Specific Results to demonstrate how you made a difference.
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Use analogies: Use clear and simple analogies to connect your ideas.
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Stay authentic: Let your unique voice and perspective shine through in the essay.
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Lastly, Ensure your essay is free of grammar mistakes and that each idea is clearly communicated.
To search for suitable universities, start by visiting usnews.com. In the search bar, type your preferred field of study. You will get a ranked list of all universities in the USA that offer programs related to that subject.
For example, you may get a list of 100 universities. But remember:
Not all of them offer Master’s or PhD programs in that subject — some may only offer undergraduate programs. USNews shows everything under the subject name, so you must filter manually.
Your next task is to visit the official website of each university. Then:
- Go to the department page.
- Check the faculty list.
- Read each professor’s research interests.
- If the website doesn’t provide enough details, search the professor on Google Scholar or ResearchGate.
Once you identify professors whose research matches your interest, start contacting them.
For general program-related questions, email the Department Chair or the Graduate Program Coordinator. Their job is to respond to prospective students — so don’t hesitate. If needed, send as many emails as required. They will answer all your queries.
Whom to Email First?
Start emailing in this order:
- Assistant Professors
- Associate Professors
- Professors
Why?
Assistant Professors are usually more active in taking new students because they need to meet publication and supervision requirements for their promotion. So they tend to accept more graduate students.
Many people don’t know which foods can and cannot be taken on flights!
Allowed Foods
- Dry Foods/Snacks: Cookies, Nuts, Chocolates, Chips etc.
- Fruits: Fruits are allowed but pre-cut, washed & dried fruits in sealed containers. (International arrivals like into USA, usually not allowed — especially fresh fruits)
- Baby Food: Baby food, formula and breast milk are allowed, even if they exceed the 3.4 oz (100 ml) liquid limit but must be declared at security.
Not Allowed Foods
- Cooked Foods (but solid cooked food is usually allowed on domestic flights)
- Liquid Foods: Liquid or semi-liquid foods (e.g., yogurt, sauces, soup) are not permitted.
Packing Tip
Carry all food items in a single shopping bag for convenience. During security checks, you only need to present this bag for inspection.
Note
Always check TSA (for USA), your airline or destination country’s customs for the latest rules — rules may vary!