yeso89

Although I am waiting on 3 more schools, I have decided to commit to Mount Sinai. Couldn't be happier! So glad this cycle is over! It's funny how things work out for the best. Congrats to everyone who has been accepted and to those who have made their decisions!

I'll be there also. I'm coming from California too (Los Angeles). I was also confused about lodging since I didn't get a reply from the email I sent by the deadline. I emailed the admin and she said they had me down for lodging and that the hotel contact info was on the schedule that was sent out. I guess we show up at the hotel and check-in? Still not sure how it works. Nonetheless I'm really excited! I've been counting down the days, it's my dream school! I believe there are two more interviews sessions after this. I received my invite about a month before the interview.

Anyone else interviewing at Mt. Sinai? I emailed the coordinator about lodging and haven't received anything yet.

Not everyone is easy to approach, thought I'd ask in a friendlier environment before putting myself in that position. I noticed that, everyone still says MCDB. I just go with the flow. Good to know that there is still some hope left. My PI is MIMG (immunity and microbes) I'll ask him or someone in the lab tomorrow to see if they've begun reviewing applications. That's just mean....... Major props on the USC interview! That's freaking awesome! Clutch move...

I've asked some of the grad students here and they have no clue. I'm tempted to just walk over and ask in person, but wanted to see if someone knew already. I applied to MCDB, which home area did you choose?

Does anyone know whether UCLA Access or USC PIBBS are still reviewing applications?

Dude, you got an interview with UW. That is a huge accomplishment! They're very selective with that program from what I hear. My PI has a connection at the school and it's one of the best programs for your field. Lots of cool stuff being done there. No sure what type of work you want to get into, but the HIV research there is really interesting. I've learned just to relax and enjoy the holidays. You stood out to a program that takes 7 people each application cycle. You'll be fine!

It really is unfortunate, but true. I get a lot of mixed reviews from professors. Some say that the GRE can be a deal breaker and some say that they don't even look at GRE scores when they review an application. This is coming from professors at top research universities. It really is a bummer. I have specialized training in the field of stem cell biology through a fully funded internship and staff position. I have presented 4 posters and done 3 oral presentations. I'm about to finish my Master's program with a 4.0; will be defending my thesis in February. Currently preparing two manuscripts for publication. All my thesis work was done at a top research university. My numbers might not be stellar, but it really doesn't say anything about my abilities. I'm not the best with multiple choice test, I'd rather be able to explain my train of thought through essay based questions. I wish there were other ways to "test" our abilities. Ok, rant over. GRE looks to be important, but not a deciding factor. Happy holidays, everyone!

I decided to go with CSD because I already know what I want to do. Also, I thought having direct experience working with embryonic stem cell and studying their differentiation would make me stand out. I didn't know CSD only interviews 6-7 people. I thought more people would apply directly to departments if they had the chance.

Yea. I really didn't like the backwards thing, neither did my recommenders. I submitted my app on the 21st and my last letter went in on the 27th. I want to email/call Kenton, but I'm too chicken. I guess I don't want a rejection from there. Did they give you a choice of dates or was it one date? I'm really hopping they do it in waves. Might be my low GRE scores, but I thought my MS degree and experience would make up for that.

Thanks! Congrats on the interview, though. Did you hear from Kenton (the admin director) or the school directly? Looking at the results from last year, it looks like they sent the invites in one batch. When did you turn in your completed application? Mine was close towards the end due to one of my recommenders not submitted their letter until the wednesday before the app deadline.

That's one of my top choices. I still haven't heard anything from them yet. Wondering if I should call or email. I really wanted to go to this school. I have direct experience with stem cells too......