Hopephily

I know geography is a small consideration (if any) in program choice. So out of the schools that you applied to, where would you want to move if location was your main consideration and why?

Table is right to point this out. The extension of 'unofficial' seems to vary from program to program.

I'd try to be more optimistic, but it probably wouldn't work.

Some of last year's entries were pretty funny. I recall a Hogwarts acceptance.

Well, given how incredibly difficult it is to get into a program, I suppose people are erring on the side of caution with respect to their expectations.

After such an intense experience (I just got all my apps in), I'm not really sure what to do with my self. I too, already have an MA and have I've been adjuncting in addition to some other part-time work. So I'll probably keep doing that. I might also sit in on a philosophy course or two and try to write a paper or two.

I've heard that some programs will hold GRE scores for a while. So that if you're reapplying you don't have to resend them. Anyone know how widespread this practice is? Or which programs offer this?

Furtivemode, The accessibility of the notes is something that I am concerned about. Thanks for your input.

Just some last minute questions about the writing sample that I was hoping someone might be able to answer. 1) Is it proper to include acknowledgements (i.e., as a footnote/endnote) in your sample? 2) Is it better to use footnotes or endnotes? Or is this just a silly question indicating that I am going mad after a long semester? 3) Abstract or no abstract? Thanks!

Wow. That's bad news for a lot of people.

Sounds like you've got some great letters!

GRE scores are not competitive for the programs of higher rank.

Loric - Maybe I'll have to give intimidation a try. I'm learning that the schools expect A LOT.

This one is official enough for me. I, too, struck out last year (15-0) and am giving it a go one more round. Best of luck to you all.

What you have both said strikes me as true. I think 2 of my writers are doing just those things, but as for the 3rd, I really don't know.

Matt, I have always heard that exceptional LOR's is a must. Have you heard differently?

yes they all agreed to right me very strong letters. But i'm learning that what a writer thinks is very strong and how it is perceived by ad coms might be quite different.

In answer to this question: perfection.

Hey bar_scene_gambler, when you say that 2/3 recommenders made you sound like the greatest scholar on earth, what are the sorts of things they said? I.e., did they speak at length about your particular abilities? Work you have done? How you compare to other students that have done well?

These things cause me great stress. Anyone else worried about any of their letters?

Great minds think alike! Thanks and best of luck to you too!

I think it's a good idea to apply to at least some lower ranking programs provided they are reasonably strong in relation to some of your interests. There is one lower ranker (PRG) school that was not really on my radar before, but the more I learned about the program (and spoke with current students) the more I became interested in it. I wouldn't say it's a top choice, but I'd seriously consider going if I got accepted.

I've been lurking for a while now, but finally created an account. I just submitted my first today and many more to come. Best of luck to all of you!