I think something that helps me through this time is remembering there is quite a bit of subjectivity in these processes. Programs in any given year may be interested in working with artists whose work addresses things that align with the focus of their current cohort or maybe, oppositely, want to choose artists who have different approaches/material interests than their current cohort. So much is about fit, not always about the quality of the work. Also, I went to the UCLA open house and heard one professor say that she was looking for work that "excited" her, and I try to keep that in mind as well. Everyone's ideas about that can really be different. And also, on a personal level, I know my work tends to be very "quiet" and that isn't everyone's cup of tea, but in the end, I can only be myself. Hopefully this encourages a little!