[Shutout 2017]

1 minute ago, natalielouise said:

This is how I'm feeling! I am trying to look at it positively because now I have the opportunity to apply to different programs that are probably a better fit anyway. I am still sad, but more and more I am a little excited at the fact that I get another chance to think about this and do it better. It can be exciting! Thanks for these super kind words. 

The fact that you feel excited and strategic about next year is awesome. 

Oh! and as per your original post, I would say fuck the subject GRE if that's what you were considering retaking. I had an abysmal score and got waitlisted at the one school that required it. grain of salt though, obviously. 

 

[Shutout 2017]

Being shut out feels pretty fuckin terrible. I know it does. But it IS common.  and while I'm sure you're not particularly interested in hearing more vague "stick with it" encouragement, I do think it's important to know that a shut out doesn't mean you need to lower your expectations. For example, last year I applied to 7 schools (across all ranking levels) and didn't get an offer from a single one. This year i cast a wider net and got into a handful of schools, including one of my "dream schools," Brown. I was still rejected from the mid 40 range schools to which I had applied last year, as well as some heavy hitters like DUKE, NYU, and U Chicago, but i had a vastly more successful application season because i had a full year to figure out what I wanted to study and find schools that fit my interests.

Also, I guarantee when you get ready to rewrite your SOP you'll look at this year's version and think, "I have so much more to say."

[Waitlist Movement]

OOoo! I have something to contribute here! I've declined offers from UPitt and Carnegie Mellon, and will likely be turning down UC Davis as well.  I will be removing my name from CUNY's waitlist soon, but i'm holding out hope on Cornell's. 

[2017 Acceptances]

3 hours ago, Caien said:

@claritus are you the Brown poster who said they were shut out last year? I ask cause I think we should start a club  But seriously, I've been thinking those of us who managed to turn our applications around should do a thread on how we changed strategies once all the results are in, to help out future applicants. I remember there was a poster last year who struck out and then was accepted to Columbia the following year, and seeing that really helped me stay positive.

That was me! I was active on this site a couple years ago for my masters application, but have only been lurking this year. I think that's a great idea!