When application files are assembled at SIPA we only include required documents in the admission file. This means that we do not accept writing samples, addendums, or any other information that is not listed as a required document. However, applicants can include pertinent information that demonstrates aptitude for our program or is important to providing information about your background in the résumé/CV that is submitted.
There is no need to stick to a purely professional format when submitting a résumé to SIPA. Most of all this means that you should not concern yourself with submitting a one page résumé. A one page résumé may be standard when applying for a job, but the Admissions Committee at SIPA has no problem with longer résumés. The average résumé submitted to SIPA is about three pages. It is okay to include special sections in your résumé to expound on your aptitude or explain special circumstances.
For example, it is always a good idea when applying to SIPA to include special sections highlighting your quantitative and language preparation. The language preparation is particularly important for MIA applicants because of the requirement to be proficient in a second language to graduate. If your transcripts clearly show that you enrolled in language classes, it is not a bad idea to include this information again in your résumé. Other pertinent information may include time spent living in a foreign country, private study of languages (i.e. Rosetta Stone), or involvement in language groups.
In addition, it is wise to have a special section in your résumé that highlights your quantitative preparation for our program. This can include a list of coursework in quantitative methods as well as research or work projects that incorporate quantitative analysis. Many applicants also choose a recommender that can highlight successful application of quantitative methods in the classroom or in the workplace.
Applicants can also include miscellaneous sections in the résumé describing unique circumstances or projects. For example, if an applicant’s overall grades were strong at the undergraduate level but suffered one semester due to personal circumstances of some sort (i.e. sickness or family emergency) this information could be included in a special section on your résumé. And while we do not want students to submit a copy of their thesis or substantial academic or work projects, applicants can include special sections that summarize work done on special academic or professional projects.
Do not worry about packing a lot of information into a small number of pages by using small fonts or margins. Include information that you believe is relevant and realize that we are not concerned with keeping your résumé to a single page.
