They were all PhDs. When I didn't get into any of the doctoral programs I was encouraged to do an MAR at Yale, so I applied there. The best advice I've gotten has been from setting up meetings with professors and telling them what I wanted to do and seeing if they could/would give recommendations. I thought I had a few clear shots (one being chicago too) and they didn't work out.
Throughout my application process most programs are not very forthcoming with advice on what you could have done better. I've had some professors who I had been in constant contact with essentially go ghost after applications came in. Maybe my stuff was so bad they were disappointed and thought the conversations were not worth it any more or something. IDK. I never spoke with admissions except for the MAR because I've just been applying to PhD programs.
Also, I forgot that I applied to UPenn (PhD) as well.
BUT!!! From what I understand Yale Mar decisions should be out next week! So, fingers crossed.