[Gap Years and Contacting Professors]

My best advice, go talk to your professors. Build relationships with them because they have all the connections and can give you the best advice. In addition, they have seen your work and know what you are capable of. My acceptance in a Masters and now PhD is all because of two professors I worked with for the last two years of undergrad and basically followed around. My mentors have each given me a job over the summer and now I'm Ta-ing for one of them.  They have both provided me with more advice and guidance than any other source including future professors I will be working with. 

[Graduate Decision]

It really depends on the schools. Check the results board to see when they got decisions out last year. 

[Informing adcom of chances of accepting an offer]

That's a tough spot. You could always go with the great non-answer.

"Dear blah blah blah, 

I am thrilled to be accepted into this program because it is one of my top choices. This also happens to be the first school I have heard back from! As soon as I receive my other decisions I will inform you as soon as possible. Again, I am thrilled to be accepted into this program and look forward to the (insert event they invited you to here OR ask for a campus visit to show interest and investment)."

[Recruitment Event after acceptance]

I have been trying to find information about what to expect at recruitment events for non-science PhD students. I was accepted into a program for Cultural Studies and was invited to a recruitment event. What the heck is it?? What can I expect? Should I wear a suit? Trousers and a blazer? Trousers no blazer? Trousers and button up no tie? How do I hide my "imposter syndrome" that has slowly creeped into my life in the past 24 hours? Any help or guidance would be amazing. 

[Fall 2017 applicants]

23 hours ago, avflinsch said:

good news - UVA is starting to send out notices
bad news - you were not a first round draft pick
Possibly good news - all of the notices went out by email, so check your spam folder (just in case you missed the email)

Is is possible that they are sending out offers by research area? That is wishful thinking on my part. 

[Fall 2017 applicants]

I checked the results listings today and five people heard back from the University of Virginia but my application still says under review. I'm nervous, what does this mean?