• Begin planning on time

By starting early and taking proactive steps, you can stay ahead of the curve and avoid last-minute stress. I began planning for master’s in my second year of college. Ideally, have at least a year to build your profile

• Set clear goals

Identify the programs and universities that align with your career aspirations, and then work towards building a strong profile that reflects your academic and professional potential. Tabulate this information in a spreadsheet

• Get relevant experience

Admissions committees at top universities look for candidates who have relevant experience in their field. This can include research internships, independent research projects, and industry internships. These experiences not only show your interest and commitment to the field but also help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a Master's program.

Tip: Go through the application requirement section of the program at your dream uni and build your profile depending on what they want. For example, UChicago required a single-authored writing sample. I began working on this research project a year before the application deadline so I’d have ample time to write and submit it.

• Focus on academics

Academic excellence is a must-have for any top university. Focus on developing strong writing and critical thinking skills, as these are essential for success in a Master's program. Know that you will be competing with students who have a perfect 4.0/4.0 GPA so give academics your best!

• Seek mentorship

Getting into a top university is not easy, and it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Seek guidance and support from your professors, mentors, and peers. They can provide you with valuable insights and feedback, as well as help you stay motivated and focused on your goals. Project SHORT is a free mentorship program and my mentor was very active in going over my cold email and internship application material.