greatdivergence

you may also try contact your POI if he/she indeed gave you that impression? It may not change anything but most likely there is nothing wrong with you and your application - it could well be an administrative decision. Maybe that makes you feel better?

I hope you have good news from other programs!

I think they should have informed everyone. It would be strange to inform waitlist first.

I was informed by an email from the director of graduate studies that they put me on their waitlist

Just to follow up - anyone received a rejection from Columbia? Seems only admissions are posted...