Re: applying to graduate school after 13 year layoff

For what it is worth, yes you have a chance. But I'd realistically
note that it may take a little while to get in. Now is the time to
apply for fall of '04, and you should get the following things in
order:


Meet with any advisor or faculty you can, but be prepared when you go
in. The faculty may be on the admission committee.

Study hard for your GRE's, get workbooks like Princeton Review for
subject areas

Work hard on your personal statement, these carry a lot of weight. In
your statement, speak to your maturity now vs then, and talk about any
significant events over the past 13 years.

Consider taking a college course immediately, to remind yourself of
the rigor... This is also helpful in including in your personal
statement, and may be required.

Get references that state to your ability to apply yourself in
graduate school

I didn't believe it myself, but admissions committees looks at the
collection of application materials, and so can be encouraged to
overlook poor performance in one area.

good luck

-Nick