Last year was my first time applying for PhD programs. I found this forum late in the cycle, so I felt awkward joining the conversation and just lurked for weeks instead. This year I'm here on time! I made some mistakes during the process last year. My primary mistake was applying to only three programs, but I did what I could afford. I still have kind of a bitter taste in my mouth from the whole process, though. I didn't have much luck connecting with POIs. I, too, am thinking about retaking the GREs to make myself more competitive, as well as possibly publishing my master's thesis, but I also feel like those application deadlines are rapidly approaching. It was hard to balance applications with work last year, but this year I'm also planning my wedding, so I'm concerned about how much time I will have to devote to everything. I guess my focus at the moment is honing my statement of purpose and doing a better job of selecting programs that match my interests. That was another mistake I made last year: picking programs based on reputation and recommendations instead of on mutual interests and goals. Before I focused only on communication programs, but now I'm realizing that there are some cultural studies, media studies, and American studies programs that better align with my interests. Anyway, I'm looking forward to some more great discussions and helpful advice here this year!
