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Thanks, that's really helpful! I will definitely bear that in mind whilst I'm looking!

Hey jelris, thanks for your reply! My current project is exploring how the visual is negotiated in Chicana literature and the cultural implications that entails. I have also written about literatures of the diaspora previously, including the Caribbean, and the ways in which the sensory provides a means to re-experience home in a new country. There are a few reasons why I would prefer to apply to the U.S., mostly because I would like the chance to explore new areas of study as I have often focused on American literature from similar time periods. It would be great to be able to expand my knowledge rather than jumping straight into writing a thesis. I also like the focus placed on teaching as that is an important part of gaining a PhD for me. From the programs I have researched, most seem to offer funding, which is a lot better than in the UK where only a select few are offered grants. I have also always wanted to live in America so it seems like a great opportunity! Sorry for the longwinded answer! I will spend some more time looking at the kinds of programs which are producing work which match my interests, I am just feeling a bit nervous about the whole process and my chances!

Hi everyone! I am currently finishing studying my Masters in the UK, and looking to apply for a PhD in the US beginning in Autumn 2018. I am struggling to figure out the rankings of programmes I would be suitable in applying to (i.e. would Ivies, UChicago be out of my league), and so any advice would be great! Here are my stats so far: Undergrad: 1st/4.0 GPA from a top 40 UK institution. Awarded prize for best scholar, and published in universities arts journal. Masters: Currently averaging a Distinction/ 3.85 GPA from a highly regarded university. Organised a conference within the department, and presented a paper. I am hoping to present at a few more conferences over the next year, and gain some teaching experience, and will be taking the GRE around October. My interests are broadly in the areas of diaspora and border literature and so I would be targeting my application to that topic (I have researched a number of universities and how I would fit there, but I am in the midst of writing my dissertation so have not made any firm decisions!). Obviously as it is extremely competitive, and many people applying will have excellent grades and achievements it is hard to know someone's chances, but if anyone has any thoughts they would be greatly appreciated!