ZrSiO4

I can't say much on Washington, but I grew up in Boulder and know several people in geo grad school there. Boulder is a fun quirky place (although it's becoming less quirky as it continues to gentrify and yuppie-fy). You will find some of the best mexican food, vegetarian food, beer, etc in and around Boulder. Definitely a foodie paradise. The weather is indeed pretty darn perfect, although it practically never rains, which bothered me at times but if you're sick of rain that's a plus. Boulder's proximity to national research institutes is also pretty sweet. There's NCAR, NOAA, NIST, GSA headquarters, USGS offices, plus everything at CU and bunches I probably forgot. Tons of culture and stuff to do, super environmentally friendly, very very liberal, generally happy place. Almost every possible outdoor activity is practically in your backyard or a very short drive/bike ride away. Hmm, some cons on Boulder off the top of my head include: Pretty high cost of living. Housing prices and rental rates are pretty steep, but probably more reasonable around the university and further south (I lived in north/central Boulder). entitled yuppies and trust fund babies everywhere (plenty of wonderful people too) lots and lots of weed everywhere (could be a pro or a con depending on your perspective...) I'm happy to answer any other Boulder related questions Contrats! Good Luck!!!

Hellooooo I got an email from the POI at the school I really really wanted to get in to in which he very kindly told me that they won't be able to admit me this year. I am pretty crushed and trying to rekindle my self-confidence. I had been in contact with the POI and felt my chances were pretty darn decent. Would it be acceptable for me to email him and ask for feedback on why I didn't make the cut?? (I already responded right after the original email thanking him for consideration etc). pooooooop