metabolismo

I got in to UCI off of the waitlist! Thank you so much everyone who declined your offers quickly and made the waitlists move. I am so so thrilled I almost cried on the phone with the director. 
By the way, she said that they haven't filled out their class yet, so there is still significant shuffling to be done. Don't despair I'd you're waitlist locked, it can happen!
I'm emailing Brandeis and BU to remove me from their waitlists right now.
Where my fellow Anteaters at?

@atx09 I got a call abt 10:30 EST.  High on the waitlist. I'm hoping for some movement soon bc Houston is tied for #1 for me.
Good news from VCU and Emory? 
@robyn94, SLC usually has a lot of movement on their waitlist (as do most programs!) but particularly there, due to their large class size. So don't give up hope yet!
 

Okay so my survey results and analysis can be found here
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1o1QTZb-PHuih117SY9LW7rPF0-Qm_WGjUvfc7pj0NVM/edit?usp=sharing
And here
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bvloEuIlsL5AohmhoBjuF_3UV_ADCF3lz8yVtkLjY9o/edit?usp=sharing
Respectively.
I get a little wordy, but the TL:DR is that I think that about 84% of applicants who were interviewed are getting in somewhere. I'll update my numbers as I get more data. To answer your question, @minja134, right now, people who have answered my survey account for about 5% of total interviews conducted.

I'm eager to answer this!
It will require this very short Google form
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeFfmSKz2l_GWaxpPNkr1Mu5LlyJCZZPzwn3zN54esdvveOMw/viewform?usp=sf_link
And the crowd sourced completion of this spreadsheet (if you have an educated guess about how many interviews a program conducted or how many students they will be accepting for their fall 2017 class, fill that in - i will finish up the algorithm stuff.)
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bvloEuIlsL5AohmhoBjuF_3UV_ADCF3lz8yVtkLjY9o/edit?usp=drivesdk
I promise interesting and applicable data based guesses about how many total applicants there are this cycle and how many of them are likely to get in to a school.

I am also super curious about everyone's thoughts and rankings of the programs after their interviews! I would like to hear what all of you thought about your favorite programs, as well as what you disliked about the programs that didn't feel like a good fit for you.  
Since I am obsessed with google docs, l created an anonymous google survey that we can fill out to indicate our top choices (multiple choice style), and thoughts on the programs we interviewed at (short answer style).  
GOOGLE SURVEY LINK -->
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScblLkOC10eqmrQDn_PLVrutN5sllsTnQ4A6Xoq8OnMJfq7uQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
Supposedly respondents should be able to see summary charts and text responses after submitting, but I will also share the results after we get some decent response data. Maybe even some sweet charts & graphs to boot.  Hopefully we can give our more candid opinions of the programs this way
 
@Gorays39 How I have been trying to rank the programs:
(1) Affordability/cost of living, (2) strength of clinical training rotations/opportunities for specialty & nontraditional rotations (3) strength of faculty/academics/thesis structure (3) location/city (patient population/diversity, transportation around the city, how far from family/partner, type of weather, do I think I would be happy living there, etc,)

I am also super curious about everyone's thoughts and rankings of the programs after their interviews! I would like to hear what all of you thought about your favorite programs, as well as what you disliked about the programs that didn't feel like a good fit for you.  
Since I am obsessed with google docs, l created an anonymous google survey that we can fill out to indicate our top choices (multiple choice style), and thoughts on the programs we interviewed at (short answer style).  
GOOGLE SURVEY LINK -->
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScblLkOC10eqmrQDn_PLVrutN5sllsTnQ4A6Xoq8OnMJfq7uQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
Supposedly respondents should be able to see summary charts and text responses after submitting, but I will also share the results after we get some decent response data. Maybe even some sweet charts & graphs to boot.  Hopefully we can give our more candid opinions of the programs this way
 
@Gorays39 How I have been trying to rank the programs:
(1) Affordability/cost of living, (2) strength of clinical training rotations/opportunities for specialty & nontraditional rotations (3) strength of faculty/academics/thesis structure (3) location/city (patient population/diversity, transportation around the city, how far from family/partner, type of weather, do I think I would be happy living there, etc,)

I am also super curious about everyone's thoughts and rankings of the programs after their interviews! I would like to hear what all of you thought about your favorite programs, as well as what you disliked about the programs that didn't feel like a good fit for you.  
Since I am obsessed with google docs, l created an anonymous google survey that we can fill out to indicate our top choices (multiple choice style), and thoughts on the programs we interviewed at (short answer style).  
GOOGLE SURVEY LINK -->
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScblLkOC10eqmrQDn_PLVrutN5sllsTnQ4A6Xoq8OnMJfq7uQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
Supposedly respondents should be able to see summary charts and text responses after submitting, but I will also share the results after we get some decent response data. Maybe even some sweet charts & graphs to boot.  Hopefully we can give our more candid opinions of the programs this way
 
@Gorays39 How I have been trying to rank the programs:
(1) Affordability/cost of living, (2) strength of clinical training rotations/opportunities for specialty & nontraditional rotations (3) strength of faculty/academics/thesis structure (3) location/city (patient population/diversity, transportation around the city, how far from family/partner, type of weather, do I think I would be happy living there, etc,)

I am also super curious about everyone's thoughts and rankings of the programs after their interviews! I would like to hear what all of you thought about your favorite programs, as well as what you disliked about the programs that didn't feel like a good fit for you.  
Since I am obsessed with google docs, l created an anonymous google survey that we can fill out to indicate our top choices (multiple choice style), and thoughts on the programs we interviewed at (short answer style).  
GOOGLE SURVEY LINK -->
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScblLkOC10eqmrQDn_PLVrutN5sllsTnQ4A6Xoq8OnMJfq7uQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
Supposedly respondents should be able to see summary charts and text responses after submitting, but I will also share the results after we get some decent response data. Maybe even some sweet charts & graphs to boot.  Hopefully we can give our more candid opinions of the programs this way
 
@Gorays39 How I have been trying to rank the programs:
(1) Affordability/cost of living, (2) strength of clinical training rotations/opportunities for specialty & nontraditional rotations (3) strength of faculty/academics/thesis structure (3) location/city (patient population/diversity, transportation around the city, how far from family/partner, type of weather, do I think I would be happy living there, etc,)

FYI: Link to the survey results page if you want to see the updates since you have submitted.  With pie charts, YAY
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScblLkOC10eqmrQDn_PLVrutN5sllsTnQ4A6Xoq8OnMJfq7uQ/viewanalytics

I am also super curious about everyone's thoughts and rankings of the programs after their interviews! I would like to hear what all of you thought about your favorite programs, as well as what you disliked about the programs that didn't feel like a good fit for you.  
Since I am obsessed with google docs, l created an anonymous google survey that we can fill out to indicate our top choices (multiple choice style), and thoughts on the programs we interviewed at (short answer style).  
GOOGLE SURVEY LINK -->
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScblLkOC10eqmrQDn_PLVrutN5sllsTnQ4A6Xoq8OnMJfq7uQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
Supposedly respondents should be able to see summary charts and text responses after submitting, but I will also share the results after we get some decent response data. Maybe even some sweet charts & graphs to boot.  Hopefully we can give our more candid opinions of the programs this way
 
@Gorays39 How I have been trying to rank the programs:
(1) Affordability/cost of living, (2) strength of clinical training rotations/opportunities for specialty & nontraditional rotations (3) strength of faculty/academics/thesis structure (3) location/city (patient population/diversity, transportation around the city, how far from family/partner, type of weather, do I think I would be happy living there, etc,)

Look, I don't know what you're trying to prove, or why you're trying to make me look and feel inadequate but it's not working.
If you really must know, I study ancient DNA.  That means I go into a lab and I create a bunch of chemical mixtures (usually comprised of some sort of mix EDTA and Proteinase K) that digest the ancient tissue (be it bone or what have you).  I then take the DNA and put into a DNA library with primers and end repair adapters and a bunch of other things to amplify the fragmented and damaged DNA.  And like magic, after a few hours, I get a read out, via a BioRad PCR machine that creates a regression curve.  Anything between 90% and 110% is perfect efficiency for the PCR, anything less, there is likely some sort of inhibitor in the mix.  If it doesn't work, I go back and try again.  If it does work, I visualize the PCR products on an gel and then take them to be sequenced.  My finished and sequenced DNA I then input into any number of computer programs, including programs I have written myself in Python to help me analyze my data for what I need done.
I never said my math scores were good.  So I actually don't communicate with "real" scientists, they are so far advanced my brain can't comprehend what they say.  I usually end up having an epileptic seizure and wake up with my research all done for me and a sudden publication-worthy paper all typed up for me.  Of course, I don't have any idea what it says because my rudimentary knowledge is so far beneath all of the other people's understanding of things.  Especially those in math and engineering, they are really too smart for me. 

I had the afternoon session.  I did the tour, but it was completely optional.  A couple current students walked us around campus. Super informal and I really doubt anyone would notice if you didn't go to it.
I wasn't really in any hurry to get back because my flight wasn't until 10PM.  I stayed later than I had to chatting with some of the currentl students.  I walked to the Fleemont Metro North station, which was about a 15 minute walk from campus.  I called a friend when I got there and my phone says I made that call at 6:40.  I called my mom when I got to the airport and I made that call at 7:56.  When I was in the airport security was super fast.  Less than ten minutes for sure.  I think it'd definitely be a safer option to do a later departure than 6PM.  But if that was the only option then I'm sure they would be willing to work around it.  The last part of the day was very informal and if you had to I don't see why they wouldn't let you skip the refreshments portion after the interviews.
It probably would be faster to take a car, but I didn't do that so I'm not really sure.
@WBGC That's interesting that you were the only one there.  I wonder why no one else was scheduled for the same day.

I am literally in the same boat and situation as you.  I have received 3 rejections, 1 interview offer, and am waiting to hear from 3 more schools.  The GRE is the only thing that I don't believe is stellar on my application.  Besides that, I have about 2 years of crisis counseling experience, have a history of community service at hospitals, rehab/care centers, etc. I have volunteered with an organization who supports individuals with metabolic disorders for 9 years. I also have interviewed and shadowed multiple GCs, and have volunteered in their clinic at one of the best cancer centers in California.  Receiving rejections has been hard, I truly thought that I would get many interviews based on my grades and experience. At first, I was like how can my GRE score bring everything down? I have been told that its not everything, but who knows what they are exactly looking for.  There are sooooo many different components of the application that they are looking at, as you know!
 A GC told me that every program is unique and many qualified individuals get turned away each year.  Each year they are looking for something different. I have interviewed about three GCs that didn't get in the first or even second time and they are phenomenal GCs now.  My best advice to you, is to stay strong and don't feel defeated. You have an interview and thats amazing!  Think about it, you passed many different admission screening processes to get that interview.  They know you are qualified to be a GC on paper, now its time to meet you and see if you are a fit for the program, as well as, the program being a fit for you! So prepare well for your interview.  It only takes one interview to get in.  I have friends who applied to like 13 grad programs, only got one interview, and were accepted!  I totally understand how you are feeling, If you ever want to talk feel free to message me.  I hope you have an awesome day!

@Gadgette I talked to a current student at Pitt... she said they are still reviewing applications and are planning to send out another wave soon-ish (whatever that means)! She said they tend to review applications in batches based on when they were received. I submitted mine a month early because I was nervous about SOPHAS Express taking forever, so that's probably why I heard back earlier.  If you still don't have word in a week or so, you could check in with them again.  
@TK1616, thanks so much for the update!! I'm trying not to get my hopes up, but it's good to know they are still processing applications.
 

@Gadgette I talked to a current student at Pitt... she said they are still reviewing applications and are planning to send out another wave soon-ish (whatever that means)! She said they tend to review applications in batches based on when they were received. I submitted mine a month early because I was nervous about SOPHAS Express taking forever, so that's probably why I heard back earlier.  If you still don't have word in a week or so, you could check in with them again.  
@TK1616, thanks so much for the update!! I'm trying not to get my hopes up, but it's good to know they are still processing applications.
 

For those who haven't heard from Hopkins and Icahn yet I called both offices today 
Hopkins said they put in a lot of decisions today so we would hear possibly tomorrow or Wednesday 
Icahn said they were still screening candidates as well
Hope this puts some people at ease!! 

Nice! Emory has internship opportunities with the CDC that might be a good fit for you, if you're interested in public health policy. Definitely something to look into!
I interviewed at VCU last week. Everyone was super nice and the Richmond, Va area seems like an awesome place to live (great food/beer/music scene with very affordable cost of living). Ann Arbor is also a great city, so lots of excellent choices!

@metabolismo I'm having the exact same anxiety. I saw that someone posted an interview from Hopkins early this morning and have been refreshing constantly.
I just want to knoooooow!

Oh that's exciting! @Lakers1960 where are you interviewing?
Best advice I have is write down a list of as many questions you can possibly think of... about the program, about the clinical rotations, about the city, etc.  Even better if you can think up some personalized questions for the people who will be interviewing you.
You would be surprised how fast all of your questions get answered throughout the day! It helps to prepare a loooong list so that you have something to say when they ask "Do you have any questions for me?!" hahaha 

Oh that's exciting! @Lakers1960 where are you interviewing?
Best advice I have is write down a list of as many questions you can possibly think of... about the program, about the clinical rotations, about the city, etc.  Even better if you can think up some personalized questions for the people who will be interviewing you.
You would be surprised how fast all of your questions get answered throughout the day! It helps to prepare a loooong list so that you have something to say when they ask "Do you have any questions for me?!" hahaha 

Oh that's exciting! @Lakers1960 where are you interviewing?
Best advice I have is write down a list of as many questions you can possibly think of... about the program, about the clinical rotations, about the city, etc.  Even better if you can think up some personalized questions for the people who will be interviewing you.
You would be surprised how fast all of your questions get answered throughout the day! It helps to prepare a loooong list so that you have something to say when they ask "Do you have any questions for me?!" hahaha 

I think a cardigan, or even a pullover sweater would work. You could also wear a nice sheath dress underneath the cardigan.
 I think the pattern and colors of the outfit you posted are a little too casual/distracting for an interview, but in general that combination of skirt + shirt + cardi can look very professional.  I would go for a nice button down shirt or shell underneath the cardigan (in a solid color or small print/pattern).  You could also wear a nice sheath dress underneath the cardigan.
Button down + pullover sweater:  https://tinyurl.com/gokw82h
Button down + cardigan:  https://tinyurl.com/hbmjntu or  https://tinyurl.com/zbcxh6n (not a button down, but similar)
Shell top + cardigan:  https://tinyurl.com/je9m2ot
Sheath dress + cardigan:  https://tinyurl.com/z5teb28

@Blizzard I am so, so sorry to hear that. I know it really hurts. It happened to me two years ago. Applied to three places, rejected w/o a single interview.  It sucks.  
As Lorelai would say, I think what you really need to do today is wallow.  Definitely what @raindaywoman said about self-care..., do something for yourself that helps you to de-stress and feel valued.  It's hard not to take every rejection personally, but it's such a numbers game... there are so many qualified applicants, but the programs are tiny, and they can't possibly interview every qualified applicant.
When you're ready to think about the future, you should definitely reach out to the program directors (after the admissions cycle is complete) to see if there are any areas of your application that could be strengthened. It sounds like you have excellent advocacy experience as an academic advisor.  Maybe there is another area of your application that could use a little polishing?   
As many people have said, lots of GCs have taken multiple admissions cycles to find the right program.  You have a whole year to make yourself into the best possible applicant! Work on any areas of your app that may be weaker than the rest, and get some more shadowing experience in. Next year, apply to a few more programs if you are able to, especially the ones with larger class sizes (Sarah Lawrence, Arcadia).  Every program is looking for something different, so it doesn't hurt to cast your net wide.
Hang in there! We are all sending positive thoughts your way!

I think that a briefcase might be a bit over the top (unless that is your normal style). You could look for a nice padfolio for your notebook (check amazon or an office supplies store). I took a simple, black, faux-leather tote bag with some essential items, and a portfolio with a notepad/extra copies of my CV. At my last interview we were able to leave our coats and bags in a room while we went to our meetings/information sessions, so it was great to have the portfolio to carry around when I left my bag.  
Wear whatever shoes you feel comfortable and confident in! Don't wear heels if you don't feel confident walking around in them, it will be very obvious from your body language if you are uncomfortable in your shoes or clothes.  There are plenty of stylish, formal looking flats and loafers on the market these days. You could also try wedges if you prefer something with a bit of a heel. I have two pairs of very comfortable wedges from LifeStride that I wear almost daily for work. Unfortunately, they didn't match my interview outfit, so I wore a pair of heels that I can walk around in comfortably. I also stashed a pair of matching flats in my bag for the campus tour!  
Look for something square or round toe, leather/faux leather in matte or low shine, solid color
e.g. flats/loafers:  https://tinyurl.com/jpd27vm  or  https://tinyurl.com/h9wfbw3 or  https://tinyurl.com/jatoxmf  
e.g. wedges:  https://tinyurl.com/h3v2s7v or  https://tinyurl.com/gnhz5v9  or  https://tinyurl.com/zcd4psj  
I say interviews definitely call for the " No-makeup Makeup" look.  I also really enjoy wearing makeup, and putting on little "natural looking" foundation/blush/brow tint/mascara/lip color helps me to feel strong and confident when I am out and about. I'm planning to go with the basics since I'm trying to pack as lightly as possible for my interviews, but I would feel naked without any makeup at all, lol.  But for anyone who does not normally wear makeup, I would NOT recommend trying something new for your interviews.  It took me a long time to figure out my go-to products and techniques for that low-key no-makeup look.

I know @Ellaie has heard from SLC, but I don't think anyone else has?  The results from the last two years seem to indicate that they usually send out interview invitations early to mid February... so I'm trying not to worry too much.  Ellaie, did you submit your application ahead of the due date? (I didn't submit until the last day ).
@KeepSwimming2017 I have never heard of a school needing their financial aid application submitted before they will review your admissions application, where does it say that?!?!  I did just get an email about submitting my 2015 tax returns along with my FAFSA... now you've got me worried! I will get that in ASAP.
@Gadgette I did not apply to the dual MS/MPH program at Pitt.  It is possible that they would do an interview day just for those dual degree applicants, and send out the invitations in a different wave. I applied to the dual degree program at VCU and I believe that is what they did. I didn't hear back until 10 days after other people on this forum got interview invitations. Fingers crossed for you!