timshea

Thanks for posting that review, it was very interesting. That 3% acceptance rate is scary.

I hate you. I can't wait to hear about this. I am already unhappy about missing NSF and NDSEG, I just want to get it out of the way so I can go into full ice cream consolation mode.

Damn, two down. Fellowships are depressing

G/G E/E VG/VG: Not Recommended Disappointing, but I guess I'll deal with it. One thing that's kind of weird is that I was worried about my references (one is a Chinese professor who is intelligent but can be hard to parse) and one reviewer did indeed say "His recommenders are muted in their praise, other than his advisor." but another one says "The applicant's independence and creativity receive high marks from his mentors, who provide detailed and convincing support for his candidacy." and "His passion for outreach to underserved students is obvious in his personal statement, and it has attracted the attention of his mentors as well." so I'm not sure whether to change recommenders next year or not :/

^There really isn't any need-based funding, at least federal, at the graduate level. There are tons of fellowships (generally longer, more money, more prestige), some scholarships (shorter, less money), and assistantships in many fields, but these are almost all based on merit, not need. Since it's assumed you will be supporting yourself and attending full time or else working a separate job, everyone has equal need. Theoretically, at least.

If only there was some way our collective will could force them to move faster :| Edit: It also gives me a tiny glimmer of happiness thinking that this post will now be at the top, causing each of you a moment of anxiety.

Conter example to Generis: My request along these lines in a PhD program in the UC system was politely rejected. I later realized that financial compensation in this state system is tightly controlled by the TA union, UC administrators, and even state legislature, and so cases where a PI or department can offer extra funding are uncommon (though it sometimes happens).