mitzydoodle

You could try visiting more programs/POIs, but I know there are mixed opinions on this.

Ummmm....your user name stopped me in my tracks for a few seconds before I realized it was referring to comp. lit.... My advisor was recently denied tenure, and told me that it shouldn't be a problem to get into another program because the situation isn't my fault and adcoms understand that these things happen. I ultimately decided to change my area of specialization so I could stay in the department and not have to reapply, move, etc, but it seems that as long as you have good recs and the situation was clearly out of your hands, no one is going to hold that against you.

I was accepted to Princeton for Fall 2010 and I got a call from my POI about two weeks before official results came out. It seems they make the calls to check your interest in the program so that they extend offers to those likely to come. At the time, I was told that my POI/department was recommending me, but the decision had to be confirmed by the Graduate College before official offers are extended, hence the two week wait.

A friend of mine finished her PhD there about two years ago. She only had nice things to say about the program- and William Wallace is top notch.

If you feel like the "fits" are fairly equal, I would base my decision on cost, going with the cheaper option. Not knowing more specific details (which I don't blame you for not wanting to publicize), it is difficult to give you meaningful advice. Feel free to PM me if you want.

Are they MA or PhD programs?

I'd avoid taking on that much debt at all costs ;-) Could you tell us a bit more about the "fits" at each program? You'll probably get more meaningful advice that way.

A friend of mine was accepted to JHU some time ago...if you look back in this thread you'll find it. Don't know when they will officially notify-I haven't heard anything back but have another great acceptance, so I'm not worried about it. Best of luck to all.

Best of luck to those still waiting...I hope everyone finds a good "home"

Hi MetisUlysses, Congrats on making the decision to switch to the art history track. While I have no idea how likely it would be for you to get into a top 5 MA program, I am sure there is an MA program that you can find. While a top 5 MA certainly doesn't hurt a PhD application, I wouldn't say it is necessary for getting into a top 5-10 PhD program. Find a program that you think is a good fit, hopefully has some funding, and allows you to start making connections in the field. While in the MA, do your absolute best (of course) and consciously keep an eye on your CV so that you can flesh out all areas. Best of luck to you.

I second the congrats! Good job!

No offense, but I think you need to re-think your strategy. Ideally, you should have had these conversations before submitting your application (though that is not always necessary for acceptance). Sure, you can be brave and call them and ask for more consideration, but there is no guarantee that an interview will result from that call. You may just annoy them, especially if their decisions are being finalized. It is very competitive this year. Lots of qualified people will not get in. I'm really not sure how much this last-ditch effort would help. Anyone else have any thoughts?