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Interested in applying to graduate programs in political science?
Great! The Harvard Department of Government (academic political science) community is thrilled to announce the fourth annual Political Science-Prep (PS-Prep), an informational and mentoring event for individuals interested in pursuing doctorates in political science.
Who is this program for?
The goal of this workshop is to help students who are underrepresented in PhD programs with their applications to graduate school in political science. PS-Prep offers participants the opportunity to ask important questions and to receive feedback that they may not otherwise receive without the workshop. Past participants have come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. We encourage you to submit an application even if you are unsure whether you match this section's description. Interested applicants from any institution or organization are invited to apply!
Why is Harvard Government doing this?
The Harvard Department of Government is actively and intentionally committing to building an inclusive field. While we intend to be more intentional about increasing diversity and support for diverse individuals within our own department, we also feel strongly that we should help underrepresented students pursue training in political science no matter what institutions they're interested in, because the field needs everything you have to offer! As such, our goal in offering this workshop is to help you put your best foot forward as you apply widely for training opportunities in political science.
What is the format?
Our community of graduate students and faculty will hold a free day of informal panel discussions. You will also be paired with current members of our department (i.e., faculty and graduate students) who will provide structured feedback on the materials you intend to use to apply to Ph.D. programs in political science.
What will the application feedback portion look like?
You will receive feedback on your research statement, or a brainstorm about how to approach it if you haven’t started yet.
How do I apply?
What's the application like?
The application is estimated to take between 7 and 15 minutes. It consists of a few quick questions about your background and identities that you hold, as well as a single short response question asking for information about you, your interests, research experience, and why you're interested in this program. This application is meant to be very informal!
Is this only for people who are applying to positions at Harvard?
Nope! You can apply to this workshop regardless of whether or not you plan to apply to Harvard (though we hope you'll apply to Harvard as well)! Please Note: that this event is NOT associated with admissions to Harvard University.
How are participants selected?
We will first review applications to ensure selection criteria are met. Then, we will randomly select from this pool by sub-discipline (i.e., American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory) to form a cohort for the event. We are using random selection to comprise the final cohort of attendees to ensure a maximally equitable selection process.
Important Dates:
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Friday, November 3rd, 2023: PS-Prep applications are due
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Monday, November 6th, 2023: you will receive email notification of PS-Prep admission decision
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Saturday, November 11th, 2023: the informal, live event will take place virtually (via Zoom)
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Week of November 13th: Peer/faculty feedback on application materials
Eligibility Requirements:
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At least 18 years of age
Important Notes:
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Priority will be given to individuals who are planning on applying for Ph.D. programs in political science THIS CYCLE (i.e., applying in Fall 2023 to begin a PhD program in Fall 2024).
Questions?
If you have questions about this event or the application, please email dagonel@g.harvard.edu.