Java47

Anyone attending the University of Southern Mississippi? I was accepted to the combined MA/PhD program for Fall 2013, but due to some issues, I had to defer until the Spring 2014 semester. That said, if anyone is attending USM this fall or spring, let me know. Congratulations, everyone, and good luck.

Hi everyone, I was accepted to the University of Southern Mississippi's combined M.A./Ph.D. program for Fall 2013; however, some issues arose and I had to defer my application to the Spring 2014 semester. I'll begin in January. Anyone else applying to USM for either Spring 2014 or Fall 2014? Good luck to all applicants!

It may depend on the reason that you're seeking a deferral. I had to defer from fall 2013 to fall 2014, and because my reason is sound, the English department's DGS sent a memo supporting my plans to the graduate school. That said, I suggest emailing your department's DGS explaining your reason for a deferral; he or she should be able to give you more detailed advice and information. And, yes, I would definitely ask before 15 April. Good luck!

Hi, everyone. I was admitted to USM's M.A./Ph.D. for fall 2013. Although I have to defer until fall 2014, I would like to know who else got admitted for this fall. Also, are there any users who are currently in one of the department's programs? If so, how is the program, and how do you like Hattiesburg? I'd greatly appreciate any info/responses. Congratulations to those admitted!

Just got in contact with her. She said the graduate school uses GRE scores (probably to determine funding), but such scores don't work the same way in the English department--they simply admit the "top 10-12" out of roughly 100 applicants. To me, that's basically the "test scores are one component, but we look at the application in its entirity; a low score does not necessarily bar one from admission, just as a stratospheric score does not ensure admission." That statement, and those similar, are already becoming all too common.... (!) That said, I don't think my verbal score is horrible, although it could certainly be higher. It's right on the edge of being "good," so I'm ambivalent over whether or not I should re-take the GRE. I would just like to know at what point GRE scores and GPAs are "cut off" and departments/graduate schools are no longer influenced by higher levels of distinction.

Thanks to both of you. I'm excited to apply, and I'll be sure to contact the DGS in the coming months to establish some rapport and get some additional information. I'll begin drafting my statement of purpose soon; my plan is to revise it throughout the summer and then apply in September. Do you know how heavily they consider GRE scores? Mine aren't bad, but they're not outstanding either; I would say they're easily the "weakest" part of my application, with my verbal score in the 77th percentile and AW in the 92nd percentile. We won't even discuss my quant score....

Hello, I'm applying to UCR's Ph.D. program this coming September for fall 2014 matriculation. Do you have any tips that may solidify my chances of admission? This program is my top choice. Following is a bit of info. 1.) My field of interest is Renaissance literature. 2.) I'm interested in critical theory--especially Marxist theory, new historicism, and post-colonialism. 3.) Undergraduate GPA is strong, GRE scores are decent, I have strong letters of recommendation, and I have a strong writing sample that applies specifically to both Shakespeare and Marxist theory. Thanks for your help, and congratulations to all fall 2013 admits.