uromastyx

If it's as short as six weeks then there really isn't any reason for one 'publication' on a CV as "under review."

Of course you can/should put it on your CV. If this person has gone off the deep end don't pursue their LOR; I would be afraid to include it in my application based on their personal and professional conduct. Do you have other options? Good news is this: You have 10 months until applications are due and you know that you need another LOR. Begin the search and develop relationships with this in mind. You will want advice from someone in your field, but I'm not convinced that attempting a publication should be your top priority at this point, or that it is even in your best interests. It is not the easiest thing in the world, and could be 6+ months before your paper is even read. No adcomm cares about "under review."

I am very much against this, both on a personal and professional level. It's simply not ok.

A normal process of imagination, triggered, in part, by excited newness. This is why you should give it all some time, visit programs, and weigh you options after the dust has settled slightly.

Dang, this situation is making me uncomfortable. I truly feel your pain. I hope #2 leaves on their own accord and doesn't continue to muck things up.

Ditto.

Waitlist. Doesn't look good

Hold up, am I reading this correctly? You applied to a program and aren't sure how it compares to other programs?? I don't mean to be overly rude here, but I simply don't get these posts where people ask (after they've applied!!) what a certain program offers.

That's tough. I agree with Usminka, but do you have any real say? Do you need to clear this matter with someone, i.e. the advisor? I would approach the advisor, but only if necessary. It is crucial in academia to show that you can get allow and deal with issues. A failure to do this (that is, approaching the advisor) may create waves. It sounds like the colleagues don't play a major role here. Is this a matter of getting rid of #2 simply because #1 doesn't like him/her? Is #2 really an issue? You need to decide if you can/should bring this to your advisor's attention.

It certainly won't look great, but also might not hurt you. It could be argued that you'd be at a disadvantage due a "lack of experience." But as long as you have all your ducks in a row it should be fine. The main question is whether your application will convince them that you're ready for graduate school.

I had my suspicions! Have someone check for you. Good luck!

I also believe, that to some extent, it's very beneficial to have a big name in the field. However, knowledgeable committees are also aware of what kinds of LORs these people write. Perhaps, for example, Professor X always writes glowing letters. In this instance, the 'big name' might not be the best option. But who's to know? 2 of my 4 LORs were from 'big names.' It doesn't get any better if they are respected and can write you a solid letter. That being said, I'll take glowing, honest letters (from lesser known profs) over a mediocre letter from big names any day of the week.

Obtaining a visa (after studies) is a nightmare.

I believe in 'safety schools' to the extent that people should apply to schools that aren't exactly their top choices. But I do not believe in applying to a program that one wouldn't actually be happy to attend. So in that sense, no. If that clarifies my definition of 'safety school,' then I'll say that I believe in the typical "long shots, mid-range, 'safety'" approach. Unless you're the shizz. If you're the shizz then what are you doing with safety schools?!?! YOU'RE THE SHIZZ!

Yikes! How can the committee "not be available?" I defended my MA in the summer with two committee members joining via teleconference. Can you talk to them and figure something out? If not, you'll have to contact McGill and explain the situation and ask about possible options.

That is strange, indeed. I would assume that you are being reviewed, and they are listing your educational status (graduate). So: "under review." But your guess is as good as mine.

For me it's Oxford, no question. I absolutely fell in love.

TAship. Tuition, stipend, professional experience.

Agreed!!

Not everyone is a really strong applicant. There are many people that truly aren't sure where they fall, particularly in an increasingly competitive climate. Even you assume that you will be rejected from more than 50% of your programs.

I would wait. And if other people have received news then there's your answer (most likely).

I would wait.

May I ask why you say this? Have you asked the departments or seen something on their website? Honestly, a 153Q is low for someone in the Humanities. I'm not trying to crush you, but I want to be honest, since you are asking. I have to imagine this score is extremely low for any programs in Mathematics, and will probably keep you out. The GRE isn't always the most important part, but it is still important, and Mathematics programs will look at your GRE far more seriously than other fields.

Why is Harvard listed as your program? I thought you were applying. Also, it's really impossible to know based on the profile you've provided. Plus, like you note, it's a matter of waiting now. I will say that those languages (and experiences abroad) will give you a nice boost. Best of luck!