Shouldnt you be applying to MArch II????

^There is no universally definition for a I vs II programs. OP presumably wants a first professional degree. So at Harvard for example, the program is an MArch I, and the OP should try to get advanced placement. And at SCI-Arc they would apply for the MArch 2 program. 

The numbers only mean what schools chose for them to mean. 

Natematt is correct! Technically I am applying to some MArch I programs and a few MArch II. I didn't go into too much detail because I was more focused on the work and didn't want my intro to drag on forever...but yes I'd much rather be in one of the programs that offers advanced placement, so I'm trying to get an idea how I stack up to other people with an arch background.

I really like the narrative you chose to display your work. Not my style but I understand the intention you narrate the portfolio and then each project. I also think there is a lot of intent in the way you communicate ideas. My 2 cents is that the pages can be a bit saturated. I don't see a collage intent so I think choosing some things to leave out and adding inflection to other things would make the portfolio better. I hope this helps. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks paulgermaine, I've been thinking as much myself.  Since I posted this I've been trying to simplify/reduce as much as possible....

Hello! I am applying to some of those grad programs this year! would love to hear your background and in what programs you got accepted?

thank you

J

that 'what to look for' page at the beginning is extremely patronizing 

admissions committees don't need to be told how to read a portfolio, and suggesting that yours needs special instructions is a) insulting and b) pompous as fuck