Miller Hall 1177
ironsjg@jmu.edu
So you want to go to Graduate School???
This page is for students who are interested in applying for graduate programs.
Keep in mind that there are a variety of types of programs--there is one for you!
Get involved in research as soon as possible!
Study for the GRE--early and often.
Visit your academic advisor and make plans for the application process early.
Visit the Links page to the left to see many on-line resources that can answer many of your questions.
Visit the Timeline link to see when you should be doing what.
I have provided a sample vita from a former student as an example.
1. Ask me as soon as you know you want to apply to schools and that you want my reference. Ask me if I can write a strong letter for you--if you made an A in my class, have worked in my research lab, have worked as a TA with me, or if I have worked closely with you in some other capacity I can likely write a strong letter for you.
2. Make a list of all of your schools, including instructions, program descriptions, and due dates for letters. Also include addressed and stamped envelopes if I am to mail the letters directly.
3. With your letter materials I require a vita (not a resume), a personal statement, and a clear description of why you want to work with whom (if you are indicating specific advisors) and why you want to attend each school. Also include any other information that will help me write a letter.
4. Please get all materials to me by November 5th for Doctoral program applications and January 1st for Masters program applications. For Masters program applications due in December please allow at least two weeks for me to produce a letter.
5. If there are forms to complete, please complete them prior to giving them to me or sending them to me. This includes your own information, as well as mine (as follows):
Name: Jessica G. Irons
Position/Title: Assistant Professor
Affiliation/Institution: James Madison University
Address: MSC 7704
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
Phone: 540-568-6565
Email: ironsjg@jmu.edu
If you experience problems with this page or if you have questions please contact ironsjg@jmu.edu.