I also had a stellar profile. Multiple publications, excellent letters, 5 years of devotion to research, internships. But I didn’t get it. Your profile was prob even better than mine. Although I’m extremely sad and disappointed too (rejected from 6/7) schools, this rejection isn’t the end of the world. We’re very bright students, and being rejected just means that there’s something else out there that’s better for us. Yes, it’s sad to see that we would probably be excellent contributors to science, and that there are many who get awarded but have average phd work. But it’s their loss, we’re great and we’re meant to do something greater. I hope you find some positivity and light from this rejection. For me, I like to think of it as a blessing in disguise. Phd life is hard, and I was looking for reasons to get out of that path. I hope you can find some time to reflect on all the other choices that you have. For me, I tend to go to Silicon Valley, where career growth and new challenges will help me develop. Goodluck, and I hope you find something greater where one year from now.... you’ll be like ‘that rejection was the best thing that could’ve happened’.
One of the best things my reviewer stated was that from a young age, I already knew I wanted to leave a mark in the history books, and I showed it. This person helped me realize that I’m meant to do something bigger and better. I’m glad I didn’t win. I will be able to finally focus on something bigger.