@TheRealHankHill thank you so much for sharing, that article helped more than I can tell you.
I didn't have much dough for apps, so I just applied to 4, but it has been a waaaay different and much more stressful experience than I anticipated.
So far:
Outright rejection from CMU (not a surprise, I guess, as it is a long-shot, but one of my recs has close ties there and a lot of confidence in my work)
An early interview with UARK (I then totally fell in love with their department, I thought the interview went really well and I was a bit excited)--followed by a rejection.
No word yet from UCONN or Sam Fox...but I must say, my confidence for an acceptence has dwindled...
But that article is helping me keep my confidence in my work up!!
And, yes, I cried at the UARK rejection. Went for a hike. Took a bubble bath. Etc. Etc.
Today, I'm trying to focus on current projects and future steps...
Hang in there, friends.