bumblyboo

Personally, I would recommend taking the year off and volunteering/working in your field of interest. And if you already know what you need to do to improve your application, do it! It may lead to a funded offer! I took two years off after undergrad to work/volunteer and do not regret it. I gained relevant experience, and had the opportunity to network. I'm 23 going on 24 this month and will be starting my MPH/MS. And there is no such thing as too old to start a Phd. My father just received his this past weekend at the ripe young age of 54. And if you are unwell, take the year to rest. Going into a PhD program while battling an illness sounds like it would difficult.

I'm only moving 6 hours across my home state, but I am dreading the car ride with my cat so much. I've taken her on short trips (under 2 hours) and they have been hell. I was stupid enough during my last trip to let her roam the car freely. She ended up crawling under my driver's seat and screaming/crying the entire time. Getting her out from under there was an utter nightmare and I almost crushed her moving my seat forward. It was horrible. I'm currently looking into "natural" calming agents (and actually putting her in her carrier!), and in a worst case scenario, I'll be talking to her vet about dosing her for some children's benadryl.

I really need to stop checking in on this thread. I've gone from wanting a Lo and Sons bag (everything is currently 20% off!) to a Herschel Little America to a Lo and Sons bag AND a Herschel Little America to a Ranipak YUMC backpack (probably going to end up with this). Indecisive doesn't even begin to describe it!

I try to ignore it and keep a low profile/don't involve myself, especially if it just a temporary setting/job. I take notes though. Those come in handy during HR meetings.

There are! But this topic was extremely helpful in my decision. I'll be getting a Herschel Little America for every day living and a lo and sons for more professional settings.

haha, that's actually the one that I currently own. I love it.

I currently have a 32oz contigo (has never leaked and they have a lifetime warranty) and a byo lunch bag (currently holding my breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks)

It would be best to look at the specific GPA requirements for the programs you are interested in and see how you match up. Or look at the threads/results page and see where you see where your stats fall.

I was in this same predicament last month when buying a new laptop for grad school. I decided to stay with a 15in and plan on buying a sturdy bag that will help off-set the weight.

Working, working, working! And volunteering. I have nothing exciting planned at this point. Just saving money for my move and trying to find time to sleep! Won't be moving to my new city until mid August a few days before classes start. ETA: Oops, just saw that this was posted under the Biology thread. my apologies!

I did my undergrad in Pittsburgh, and lived in the Friendship/Lawrenceville neighborhood for my last two years. Reasonable rent in the area and close to Shadyside (there was a Giant Eagle that was about 15 minutes walking from my apt) and about a ~20 min bus ride to campus. In terms of apartment companies, avoid Lobos Management. Feel free to google to see why.

After the initial "yay!" wore off from my acceptances, I have been stressed. I have about 4 1/2 months to wrap things up in my current city, save up for my move, volunteer and try my best not to burn out/get sick from the lack of down time and rest.

I was a first time pet owner when I got my kitten. The person who gave her to me told me she was 8 weeks and weaned. She turned out to be 2-3 weeks (vet's estimate), still on milk and infested with fleas (left me paranoid for well over 5 months). The first month with her was stressful. I had to go home during lunch to feed her ( kitten milk replacement is EXPENSIVE), "stimulate" her so she could go to the restroom, litter train her when she was old enough, pay out of pocket for her spay, vaccinations, deworming, etc (I go to a bourgeois vet though, so this will vary). She is 8 months now and a well adjusted kitty for the most part (I do think she suffers from single cat syndrome at times). It is possible if you are willing to put in the time, effort and research. Make sure you get the cat from a reputable person/shelter. And while my cat is an indoor cat, I do take her outside occasionally on her kitty leash/harness.

I go to the store about once every two weeks and spend around 50-75 dollars.

Have you checked to see if there are any schools in your field still doing rolling admissions?

sound advice. I guess I'll hold off until then. I"m going to get a Hershel bag instead. Fits into my current budget and I am geeking over all of the colorways!