Great discussion about ageism as well as the lack of transparency in this application process. Thanks to all for your insight. I'm 35, and I'll be 36 when I officially start my PhD program in the fall. I certainly hope that my age will not prevent me from getting a good job -- I've never really thought about it. I see my age as an asset, not as a liability. If a university doesn't want to hire me because of my age, they will be missing out on a real catch!
Also, I was rejected from UMass today too. I expected it, but like you all have mentioned, I would have loved to know why OSU and UMass rejected me. I hate the form rejection letter.