writing sample

[catinthedark]

I couldn't find an answer to this question. I apologize if it's been asked before

Comments

[circumfession]

What types of programs (and levels) are you applying for? Scanning through your profile, I'm guessing somewhere in the English/women's studies field?

If you're looking at English-y Ph.D programs. You absolutely shouldn't be turning in a paper with your professor's comments. Not only do you need a clean copy, but it should be heavily revised to address her comments. (I may be on the extreme end of this, but I revised my paper more a dozen times over 6 months). The idea is to present your best work, preferably in the specialty that you hope to enter.

I hesitate to say more without knowing your field. This does vary quite a bit. The writing sample basically IS the application in English Ph.D programs, but this definitely isn't the case for other programs.

[catinthedark]

It's for an MA in English. The cover sheet specifically says the paper should not be re-typed and should include comments. Of course I'm noticing this after I've already revised the paper.

I'm guessing they might be worried I'm not submitting my own work? Hopefully my LORs would speak to the fact I am capable of this level of writing, and they can always put the text into one of those search engines.

[homericlaughter]

I'd contact them and ask if you can submit a new writing sample since you don't have a recent marked paper for submission. I'm sure they'll say yes. I'm surprised that their directives don't include the word "preferably".

[catinthedark]

It's too late to write a new sample. It needs to be postmarked this week. They only say 'should' unfortunately