Breaking Down the Application

Author: Matthew Waterman, Director of Admissions & Recruitment

The Priority Application deadline is today – April 1. This means applications received by this date will receive priority consideration for scholarships for the upcoming academic year. Graduate applications can be overwhelming. Trust me, I know! But let me break ours down for you.

Our application consists of an autobiographical statement, seven essays, three references, and any transcripts that you may have. These different pieces help us understand who you are; who you really are. We do not accept applications, we accept people – with life experiences, wisdom, knowledge, and passions.

What is the autobiographical statement?

We want to know who you are. This is a moment for you to tell us about you – anything that you want to share. You can describe what makes you, you! Be sure to include your religious background and spiritual practices, religious or spiritual community involvement, any responsibilities that you have in your community, and your social activism. We want to know YOU!

What if I’m struggling with the essays?

When I wrote my application essays, I struggled to write something that would impress a group of people that I had never met. I was so afraid that I didn’t even speak with the Admissions Director! I wrote and deleted and wrote and deleted. Finally, I just wrote about things that brought me joy and sent it in before I could change my mind. I reflected on items that changed me in ways to be a better version of myself. I wrote about events that affected my life. I wrote about people that through good or bad, helped create the person that I am. I have realized that perfection is a mirage – the closer you get, the further it goes away. We are not looking for perfection – that is an embodiment of white supremacy culture. We are looking for you to be authentic and vulnerable – to show us you, because that’s where your ministry comes from!

What if I don’t have a “recent” academic reference?

Educators and advisors come in SO many different forms. Because we value life experience and education (and inherent wisdom), we want you to explore what this reference means to you. If you have an academic educator or advisor – great! If not – great! Who has educated you in your life? Who has advised you? Perhaps it’s your boss or your yoga teacher. Maybe it’s someone else – be creative!

If you have any questions about the application, scholarships, or need support exploring this process, please do not hesitate to reach out – I’m here for you! You can connect with me via email at admissions@sksm.edu, text or call me at 925-494-1923, or schedule a one-on-one conversation with me here.

Contact me and let’s make a plan together.