tisch63

University of Manchester or Sheffield in the UK, or University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

I got a 1200 and a 4.5 for the writing on the GRE last time I took it. Does anyone recommend taking it again? I'm concerned that if I do, I'll do worse.... Any thoughts on how much the scores actually factor into the decision making process?

I'd be willing to help too but would also like my SOP critiqued... If both of you want to message me, that would be great! We can help each other out Peanut

That's ok. Congratulations! Will you definitely be attending Washington? Who will be your advisor? I wish you the best of luck!

i just saw that a university of washington-seattle, anthropology (archaeology) applicant received an email today... if this was any of you, would you mind giving some more info? ok sorry, you guys are socio-cultural, but if YOU have any inside information, I would appreciate it

Just to let you know my horrible experience with Stanford, I submitted my application from overseas. I then called EVERY SINGLE DAY to make sure that my supplementary materials got there (Royal Mail is known for just dumping mail into the ocean instead of delivering it to the States) and EVERY SINGLE DAY I got voicemail. When I finally did get through, a day after the deadline and sending about 15 emails, I was told that one part wasn't received. They kept my $115 application fee of course. Be careful with Stanford- they are not helpful at all and just want the money. I was so unimpressed and dejected by how they treat their applicants (regardless of the number submitted) that I didn't apply again. Good Luck, I really hope that you hear good news soon and have a better experience.

I'm cautiously optimistic too! Which has me really dreading when I'm rejected-I'm going to take it really badly. The reason I'm optimistic is that I visited the program and a few professors in December and they all agreed I am a great candidate but then they use their disclaimer of not knowing how many slots they will have and how many applicants. It seems that a lot of people are offered into the Master's instead.... I guess another reason to make more money? GOOD LUCK!!!! Hopefully we will hear soon

anybody else apply for the Fall 2010 program? I applied for Egyptian Archaeology PhD and am dying for the decision!

Ok. I am only allowed 1000 words for my statement of intent. This really is not much room to outline your background, current research interests and what you can give back to the department. So my question is: how specific should the research proposal really be? Should this be the bulk of the statement or should a candidates qualities be a focus? Frankly, any advice would be greatly appreciated. I've been staring at my computer screen for a really long time. Also, if you submit your statement by mail, do you have to adhere to the word limit? HELP!!!!

Hi all I went to a UK university for my Masters and am now applying to PhD programs in US and UK. Should I attempt to convert my grade to a 4.0 scale or should I simply put N/A if available. I know that US and UK grading systems are completely incompatible but a few applications I have do not give N/A for an option and when I convert the grade (or attempt to) it makes me look pretty bad. Any ideas or suggestions?

You're lucky in a way- the NELC program at Chicago has a maximum of 1000 words. Question: how specific are you getting with your research plan (as in, are you giving lots of details or being more general to show there is room for professors to give insight?)...

I'd be happy to read/edit it as well if you need another person- send to tisch63@gmail.com GOOD LUCK!

I have never been a successful standardized test taker. The PhD program I am applying to told me they weigh the GRE's very highly in the application process. Now. I sucked on the exam: a 1040 total. I was advised to retake it but could an extra month of studying really improve my score that much (I mean, they take students in the 1400 range) What would you do? Take your chances or retake the GRE?