Application for Graduate Admission
Supplementary Application – Library and Information Science (LBSC/LBSO)
We are interested in finding out more about what you want to do in this program and in your career. You must answer the appropriate “Mandatory Question” and
then choose 3 of the “Additional Questions” to answer.
Incorporate any relevant experience (work, volunteer, internship, etc.) where appropriate. If you have earned below the 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA threshold required by the Graduate School, please address this in one of your answers.
Questions
Mandatory Question: Which specialization(s) are you most interested in, and why? Go into some detail explaining what knowledge and skills you wish to
gain through your coursework.
Your answer should be between 150-200 words.
For students interested in the School Library specialization, your answer should address the following questions:
How does the work of school librarians contribute to creating a positive and engaging learning environment for all students?
What skills do you expect to develop during graduate school that will enable you to become an effective school librarian? Your answer should be between 150-200 words.
Additional Questions:
ALL applicants must also select 3 of the following questions to answer. Each answer should be between 150-200 words.
1. Find a current job opening that you could see yourself pursuing upon completion of the MLIS degree. What is the job, and how will the MLIS program prepare
you for it?
2. Imagine you could create any class for the MLIS Program to offer. What would the class be called and what skills/content would it teach?
3. Reflect on an experience where you’ve had to navigate adversity. Describe how you persevered.
4. One of the MLIS Program Learning Objectives is to “apply user-focused strategies to work inclusively and equitably with diverse populations.” What diverse
perspective(s) do you bring to the MLIS Program?
5. If you do not have experiences volunteering/working/interning in the field, how do you know a career in library, archives, or museums is a good fit for you?
6. Graduate school should be about more than completing a degree. The skills you acquire during your time at Maryland will set the stage for personal and
professional success.
Look at the Graduate Pathways guidance provided by the Graduate School. In addition to coursework, what will you do to support
your personal and professional development?
