This time last year I was finishing up my application to Bank Street, so I thought it was a good time to share my application experience. If you are still considering applying, the priority deadline has passed, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late! Bank Street is still accepting applications for Summer and Fall of 2015.
The first step I took in the process was asking for letters of recommendation. You need three for your application and I wanted to make sure I gave those I asked plenty of time before I planned on submitting my application. Next I requested my undergraduate transcripts be sent to Bank Street, another step I knew might take some time. Then I began working on my autobiography and short essay questions. I tried to be very reflective in my writing and share my journey of what lead me to Bank Street. Make sure to mention your work with children and also your own experiences in school. I mentioned my fourth grade teacher who had a lasting effect on me. Twenty years later I still remember her class and what a great teacher she was. Those types of memories and experiences played an important role in our development as learners and will continue to play a role, as we become teachers.
Once I got my letters, finished my essays and completed the application I submitted it online. It was very easy to submit and if you have any problems don’t hesitate to call and ask for help! I had an issue when I received an email saying they hadn’t received my transcripts yet. I knew there had to be some sort of mix-up because that was one of the first things I did! It turned out because they were in my maiden name they hadn’t been put with my application. A quick friendly phone call cleared this up and my application was considered completed.
Next came the interview with the director of my program. I was pretty nervous but felt better as soon as I sat down in the director’s office. It was such a warm and pleasant experience. Most of the questions were about my experience with children and my experience as a learner. I had been contemplating for days about the type of questions I might be asked. I really didn’t know what to expect or how formal the questions would be. Overall, I would describe the questions as very thoughtful. My best advice would be to be yourself, but also show your passion and why you want to be here. I also suggest having a couple of questions to ask the program director. Check out the programs specific web page and course list. You might have questions about a specific class, or requirement, or a question about fieldwork.
Once again if you have any questions the admissions office is always available and happy to help.
Because I can’t have a post without a picture, this is my “first day of school” picture my husband took on my first day of class at Bank Street:
