Just noticed that I am the top poster in this group! So, why not one last rant?
Max anxiety with depression for the last few months. Applied to just 5 good univs and my SOP was focused on my current research and was directly related to POIs (Was really stubborn to pursue what I am doing now). (Un)fortunately, got rejected from all. Realized a few things now which I hadn't known before applying - For Int'l students it is quite challenging to get into (despite 3 great LORs); Should not have restricted/narrowed down myself to just one super-specific field. Anyway, having said all these, still not sure what else led to my rejection. Thought about it for almost a month, every day and minute. Maybe my SOP, maybe my UG GPA (3.2; thought my MS GPA and research at Harvard would compensate). Maybe its everything together. But, who knows?
After a lot of confusion and lot more of vodka, finally made peace with it all. Not gonna apply in 2022-23 cycle. Nope. Thankfully, my research experience paid off - ended up getting multiple good positions in leading therapeutic companies. It came as a blessing in disguise. During one of my job interviews, a scientist said "PhD will wait, you still have plenty of time" - and it kinda made sense. Gonna kick off a new life. Maybe this will open up new avenues or help me find a new field of interest. Everything happens for a reason.
For those who got into their dream ambitious univs or got settled with the backup safe univs - Congrats! and I am happy for you! Wish you great luck! Hope we meet and discuss science in the future!
For those who did not get into any - Cry for a month or so and shrug it off with a smile cos there is a reason behind everything. Hope you lead a great life!
Signing off ~~