I've been checking this forum since late March, decided to join now and share my results just to add to the online info base.
I got an HM for Mech E. My ratings were:
VG/VG
VG/G
VG/G
After reading the stellar ratings other HM's got I'm surprised I even got an HM. (Unless Mech E reviewers were just tougher than in other disciplines?)
The comments were actually quite helpful. two reviewers pointed out that I did not justify my choice of graduate institution. I didn't know this was required (didn't see it in the essay instructions) but would have done so if I'd known. My proposed research was "not highly transformative."
I expected to do better on broader impacts because I addressed it in all 3 essays and I've done a ton of engineering education &tutoring volunteer activities in the last two years. But I just kind of listed them; perhaps I was too "well rounded" while they were looking for something more focused. One reviewer stated I should address future leadership role I will play.
I think it sucks that # of fellowships increased 35% over last year while Mech E fellowships decreased 21% (from 53 -> 42)!!! When did NSF stop caring about Mech E all of a sudden? although with my ratings I'm not sure I was a contender for a fellowship anyways. It also sucks that after 1.5months of limbo zero additional awards were given to Mech E applicants. They must have known this was the case a long time ago and should have notified us.
I'm starting grad school this fall and may reapply next year.
out of curiosity, my results said I was in 79-93rd percentile, is this the same for everyone or just mech e?
Congrats to those who won. good luck to everyone!
