Ariel provides the Ys and Zs on professional experience

Dear Ariel:  I have only limited (or no) professional, full-time work experience. What are my chances for getting into Fletcher?

Unfortunately, we are unable to assess your candidacy for admission before you apply to Fletcher.  This means that we aren’t able to tell you that with Y number of years work experience, you have a Z% chance of being accepted to Fletcher.  There just isn’t an easy algorithm for determining which students get in! The Committee of Admissions actively seeks to enroll a diverse class of students who have demonstrated academic excellence, have a wide range of personal, professional, and academic experience, and have a strong commitment to an international career.  We seek students who, by virtue of their background, achievement, and experience, can contribute to the education of their peers and to the scholarship and practice of international relations.  We’re looking to see, based on your background, if you have the ability to succeed and actively contribute to the diverse and vibrant Fletcher community.

What I can tell you, is that while full-time work experience is not required, it is strongly recommended. The Committee on Admissions carefully reviews each applicant’s personal and professional experience to assess readiness for graduate study at Fletcher.  Voluntary positions, internships, and part- and full-time experience all play a role in preparing students for study.

It is important to look at your program requirements as well.  For example, in the MIB and MALD programs, most successful applicants will have at least two to three years of full-time work experience.  Meanwhile, the MA is a mid-career degree program requiring eight or more years of professional experience.  Another thing to keep in mind is that the average age of entering Fletcher students is generally around 27.  The class entering in fall 2012 has students ranging in age from 21 to 46.

If you are concerned about your level of professional work experience and are currently an undergraduate senior, I would encourage you to check out Fletcher’s newest option:  Map Your Future.  Map Your Future guarantees admitted applicants a place in the MALD or MIB degree program after completing two to three years of professional work experience in a Fletcher-approved position.  This highly selective program is intended for those with excellent academic credentials and preparation, a clear professional focus, foreign language proficiency, and a demonstrated track record of success to date.  The program allows for professional development and career exploration while guaranteeing a position in a future class.