I would definitely visit with those whom you plan to study under, and while you are there I would sound them out as to what kinds of letters of intent catch their eye. When I sent mine to Sonoma State I knew what kind on program they had to offer, what classes the various professors taught, and more importantly, what I wanted out of the program and what classes would help me achieve my goals. Putting all those factors together helped me frame my letter of intent.

Cheers,
Richard

Ok I set a date for a visit next week.  Should I bring anything with me?  I haven't sent my application yet to see if its a good choice for me.  Maybe a copy of my resume and of course questions to ask?  I have never really had anyone tell me the right ways of going about applying to graduate school so I just want to leave a good impression.

A resume would be ok. I would definitely know about whom I was talking with during the visit. Research the professors you are meeting with: find out what classes they teach, what areas of research or practice they specialize in, figure out or ask them how those research areas or practices can help you with where you want to go professionally. Those are the sorts of questions I would ask of myself and them. Knowing what you want to do and asking a bunch of related questions should leave a good impression. If it doesnt, then that may not be the place you want to go.

When I went down to visit the school I am at I took my resume and handed a couple out.  I didn't really plan my visit very well, other than making an appointment with the graduate advisor, so I ended up only having 15 minutes to talk with the professor who is now my advisor.  I did get to talk with another archaeology prof for about an hour though.  I should have figured out the people I wanted to talk to, and get their class schedules, etc.  Should also try and figure out if the professor(s) you want to study under are taking students for the year you want to apply.  From what I can tell, getting into grad school is pretty much about a professor wanting you, assuming you meet the minimum standards.  So, if you have stellar grades and recommends and a good letter you may stand out.  If you go down and talk to them and convince them why you are good for the program it can make up for other areas where you may not be so stellar.  Also, quiz the graduate advisor on what they are looking for in applicants.  These folks tend to be fairly neutral, and thus are fairly candid about what they want in a student and what they expect in a letter.  Our graduate advisor was pretty good about answering a lot of my dumb questions.

What have you been working on since your last attempt? writing wise - not field projects?  If you have been able to produce anything of worth? If you have, be sure to include it somehow.  You want to be able to show that you are motivated and have not just been "bumming around" recently.

OK, so i just went to the meeting with her and I think it went very well.  She showed me around the department building and into all the labs and told me which teachers would be the best fit for me to try and acquire for a mentor.  One of my former coworkers was there as well in the graduate lounge.  Now I just need to work on my letter of intent and touch up a paper of mine.  Thanks for the help.