mayxambition

Just being curious: wouldn't the funding be the same for both international and domestic students? I am waiting on UCLA as well...

No matter where we end up going, it'd be great if we could keep in touch! I also have few Chinese accent, and my American friends and professors always thought I was an ABC. But I actually think what this stereotype reflects is somewhat problematic: why can't non-native speakers speak fluent and accent-free English? I don't even like this word "native speakers" but prefer "ESL" or "L2 speakers" simply because there is this implied power dynamic going on. I used to be very harsh on myself speaking and writing English in a certain way, but then I realized accent is part of ourselves, symbolizing where we come from and how we grew up. Now I'm much more open to the cultural values behind accents and language variety, and maybe that's good for a comp lit scholar lol. Just got rejected by Yale's East Asian Studies program, which would've been great as a stepping stone for a comp lit PhD. A little frustrated, but at least I already have a good offer as backup. I am so happy that your interview helped you shine in front of the admission officers! This is indeed a sad part about application. How can standardized tests and written documents fully reflect candidates' skills and knowledge?

Hi, Wendy. Thanks for sharing your journey! I am also a native of China and I totally understand how nerve-racking the application and waiting process is for international students. I admire the choices you've made and the fact that you've been constantly improving yourself to achieve your goal. I just graduated from my undergrad program in English literature and Psychology in an American women's liberal arts college, so I'm simply challenging myself by applying to comp lit PhD programs. Your experiences and advice are especially helpful and inspiring to me. Also, it's great to finally find someone with similar background who also falls in love with comp lit. Best of luck!

Hey guys! My first time visiting the cafe. I've been waiting for offers as well. Got one from MPhil General Linguistics and Comparative Philology at Oxford, but of course comp lit is what I truly want to do! Fingers crossed for everyone...?