This session will provide information, examples, and strategies for how to prepare a competitive application for graduate school and external fellowships. The session will address questions such as: What should you write in the personal / research statement? What should you highlight in your resume? Should you take the GRE? Who and how should you ask for letters of recommendation? How are applications reviewed? Should you contact professors at the schools you are applying? How important is prior participation in research? Do awards (e.g., CRA Undergraduate Research Award) matter?