If you are in doubt about which degree program to apply for, please consult the head of your prospective concentration. The writing sample is one of the elements of your application, and is an important source of information for the admissions review process. It is wise to submit work which you feel best represents your scholarly potential in the concentration for which you are applying. I would like to visit the department. It is very wise for prospective students to visit the department and meet with the head of the concentration to which they are applying.
Faculty are available during their office hours or by appointment.
Faculty are generally not available during the summer or during Winter or Spring break, but the department remains open during these periods and the Chair is almost always to meet with prospective students. New students are expected to attend the student-organized orientation sessions held before classes begin. I want to begin in the Spring. The Spring semester is generally not a good time to begin, since most introductory courses are typically offered in the Fall. Applications for Spring admission are generally denied.