iwantmyPhD

Thanks for this post. I feel sometimes that how I got where I am is some strange miracle or mistake. Me? As smart and as capable as Them? Really? My MS. adviser keeps telling me I'll be fine, but it doesn't always make me feel better. It's nice to know I'm not the only one that feels this way.

Most schools have signed an agreement stating that they will not require students to reply before 4.15, and they cannot pressure you to reply earlier than 4.15. It is possible that they make you an offer after 4.15- it could even come late in the summer (let's say someone who previously accepted gets hit by a bus and you get their spot) I think the 4.15 date stems from government funding since it corresponds with tax deadlines (it's the first day of the first quarter).

Personally, I wouldn't take advice from someone who can't even spell brag properly.

two thumbs up!!

I went to RIT for my undergrad, and I have to say that I loved it there- the weather sucks but it's a great school. And you must go to Tahoe's for a Garbage Plate.

I don't think rankings are the only thing to consider. I think it is more important that the school you choose has faculty that specialize in the area that YOU want to specialize in because they will be able to help you make connections and expand your network in a way that is meaningful to YOU. Being in contact with a bunch of people who don't give a hoot about your research interests isn't of much use to you. Keep in mind this is coming from someone who is in the social sciences- I'm not sure if engineering is quite the same. mareserinitatis, if you were referring to what starving student was saying, I think you might be confused. Starvingstudent is saying the opposite of what you were saying. If you were referring to the other thread, well I apologize- I haven't read that thread yet.

It's your life, not your parent's. Also, if you just bought a house (within two years) and you sell for profit you're going to get hit with some nasty taxes. If you like the schools you got into and they are a good match for you (program, atmosphere, faculty) and you can see yourself being happy there- go. And congrats on your acceptance!

are you currently in a PhD program with funding? I am confused. Most PhD programs require you file for a leave of absence and there are often limitations on how long you can be gone and for what reasons.

That would be my guess... but hey, in is in.

My schoolmate and I are still waiting to hear from NU- we applied to the sociology program. My online application account things still says "your application is under review" and when I called the admissions department two days ago they said the department (sociology) still had not made a decision. ARGH. :evil:

Also, keep in mind that some MA programs will allow you to start in spring semester, so it isn't too late to apply to MA programs at all. Good luck- I know how you feel.

I understand this is a big decision, but I'd like to point out that no, it is not absolute torment. Try not knowing if you get to go to any program at all. I'm wait listed at three schools. My only hope is that someone declines and I get to go. In the mean time I wait... all the while wondering if I'll get to go- worrying about having enough notice so that I can sell my condo and my husband can find a new job in a new city. Please, make some wait listed student's day and make a decision so that the school you decline can take some other eager person who would die to be in your position.