Hector Varela Jr.

I have accepted the offer to U of C. Will be attending in the fall. I went to the Prospective Students' Day (and the Diversity Day the following day) and was very impressed. Hope to see you there. Hector.

I applied to the Committee on the Study of Religion at Harvard GSAS under the presumption that it was a post-bachelor's program leading to a PhD. In the site info, I read that they do confer the MA but only when you are admitted into the PhD program at Harvard GSAS. In other words, you can't get an MA from Harvard GSAS and run to another institution. You must get the PhD at Harvard. I already have a MAR from another institution and am counting that will give me a little bit of an edge to get into this program. But, honestly, I think my chances are slim. I emailed today. But, all this to and fro regarding conflicts, intrigue, and drama between two departments at Harvard is troubling to me. I heard that they were in flux, planning to merge all programs under HDS, but wasn't aware that things were so bad. Makes me reconsider the possibility. Hector.

This sounds better. I was really surprised about the conflicts described previously, but I understand the situation that could cause it. This is the program I applied to in Harvard, and I am still waiting for an answer. Realistically, I think my chances of getting admitted are slim to none, but I am still hoping for a yes! UChicago was my #2, so pressure is off. But I would really like the choice... Thanks, H. PS. If I get into Harvard, I might ask you for that student's email, if you're willing to share it. Getting an insider's p.o.v. is priceless! Thanks!

Wow...incredible for such a prestigious university. Thanks!

Thank you very much.

Has anybody heard anything about this program?

Hi! I have been accepted to UofC in the Religion MA program. Seriously considering accepting, but my situation is somewhat uncommon: I am married with two teenage kids. I need a good school for them, along with a family-oriented area. My biggest concern is the schools around Hyde Park. My kids are in a private school now, but private schools in Chicago are much more expensive than in PR, so it is not in the budget. And, according to our internet search, public schools in Hyde Park are, to put it mildly, not acceptable. I would have no problem commuting for 30-45 minutes if it meant a better school for them. My process is: 1. Find a good school for both my kids within commuting distance. 2. Find a house/condo within my budget inside school radius. If found, great!. If not, go back to 1. 3. When school and living area are nailed down, my wife would look for a job. Suggestions? Comments? HELP? Hector.

Wow...must be a very limited program. Just got my rejection from BU as well. Unless a miracle happens with Harvard, UChicago it is!!!

I'm sorry. But at least you know and can explore other posibilities. For me, not knowing is worse. Good luck on your endeavors and God bless.

Thank you. That offers some jitters relief...

I am very proud of my patience (three teenagers at home, for starters ), but this is getting ridiculous, Pass, fail...I just need to know. H.

Anybody else out there knows something about admissions to the MA at the DRTS at BU? I haven't heard anything. H.

I haven't heard and tried to get into the GSAS site at Harvard and am unable. Keep waiting...and praying...and hoping... Hector.

Congrats, my friend. Crying from joy is a perfect emotion. H.

God...that's actually the last thread of hope I have Thanks and good luck.