GoegraphyTutors

I’m in a very similar boat. I interviewed in early February as well and received positive feedback, with my application being recommended to the department. But when I followed up recently, I got the same kind of response—still waiting on funding decisions before finalizing offers. I haven’t seen any official offers posted from UCLA yet either, so I think we’re all in the same holding pattern. It’s tough waiting, especially with other schools' deadlines coming up, but hopefully we’ll hear something concrete soon. 🤞

Welcome aboard! Great to have someone from IIT Kanpur here—Mechanical Engg and a solid 8.45 CGPA? That’s impressive! 🎯 Agree, it's fun (and kinda eye-opening) to see how CGPA-to-percentage conversions vary—some of those formulas keep you on your toes 😅 Looking forward to hearing more from you! Always nice to have people who want to go beyond the textbooks. Here’s to productive chaos, late-night study sessions, and shared semester survival tips 😄

Feeling the same way. The waiting process—especially around graduation—really messes with your head. It’s like everything you've worked for suddenly hinges on a few unknowns, and that makes the impostor feelings come in stronger than ever. I keep second-guessing whether I deserve to be here, even though I’ve put in the work. You're not alone. I’ve been trying to remind myself that self-doubt doesn’t mean I’m not capable—it just means I care deeply. Talking to peers and mentors helps a bit, too. Hang in there, we’re in this together.

Valid concerns — U of T grad programs can be competitive, especially for research-based degrees. A 3.0 GPA is on the lower end, but it’s not a dealbreaker, especially if you can build a strong co-op track record, get good references, and possibly crush the GRE (if required elsewhere). If U of T doesn’t work out, taking a few years to gain industry experience can strengthen your profile. Some programs value professional growth just as much as GPA. Also, don’t rule out the U.S. or Europe — some European MSc programs are more flexible with GPA and still well-respected. Bottom line: Apply to U of T if it’s your top choice — no harm. Keep building work experience during/after co-op. Look internationally if you're open to it — lots of solid options.

Hey—first off, it’s great that you’re both thinking this through so carefully. I went through something similar, so hopefully this helps: 1. When to tell the program? If she’s leaning strongly toward MS-ing out, sooner is better—ideally by early Fall 2024. It gives her and the program time to plan (e.g., coursework, thesis, funding). That said, make sure she’s confident in the decision or has a solid backup plan. 2. How to talk to the advisor without burning bridges: Frame it around personal priorities and long-term goals, not dissatisfaction. Something like, “After much thought, I’ve realized that staying in the program long-term won’t align with my circumstances right now. I’d like to complete a Master’s and revisit the PhD at a better time.” Most advisors understand life happens—and she may even stay in touch for future recommendations or collaborations. 3. Funding implications: Yes, programs often reassess or withdraw funding once a student switches to a terminal Master’s—especially if that wasn’t the original track. However, this depends on the institution. If she waits until Spring, she may keep funding through the academic year—but it’s a fine balance (transparency vs financial practicality). 4. Fall vs Spring? If she plans to finish the MS by Spring/Summer 2025, letting them know by Fall 2024 allows cleaner planning. But if funding is critical, some students wait until just after Spring registration or midway through the year, depending on how their department handles it. TL;DR: Start laying the groundwork in early Fall. Be honest, but positive with advisors. Check if the coursework completed already aligns with MS requirements. Quietly gather department policy info before officially saying anything. And yes, funding may shift—so timing matters. Feel free to DM if you’d like to talk specifics—wishing both of you the best!

Thanks for sharing this—it resonates. Rejections, especially from places where you've poured your hopes and effort, can hit hard. I’m sorry to hear about Berkeley and Hopkins. Those are incredibly competitive programs, and it’s completely valid to feel disappointed. I went through something similar last cycle, and what helped me was reframing the rejection as part of the process, not a reflection of my worth or potential. A 3.7 GPA, a decade of experience, and research work? That’s already a strong, meaningful record. Sometimes it’s not about what you lack, but about how you fit within a department's very specific needs that year.

Hi there, I’m sorry you’re going through this — it sounds incredibly tough, and unfortunately, not uncommon, especially for international students. You’re definitely not alone. A few things that may help: Document everything: Keep records of emails, missed deadlines, and meeting notes. It’s useful if you ever need to escalate formally. Talk to your second supervisor or PGR coordinator: If you have one, they can often act as a buffer or advocate. Use support services: Most universities offer counseling, ombudspersons, or graduate advocacy services — don’t hesitate to reach out. Look for alternative mentorship: Even if unofficial, try building relationships with other faculty who might support your research or career goals. Funding: If you're thinking of going around your supervisor for funding, check if there are internal grants, travel funds, or external fellowships that don’t require supervisor sign-off. You’re doing incredibly well to keep pushing forward in such an environment. Please don’t let this experience define your worth or ability. Keep going — you deserve to finish strong. 💪

Hi! Your profile already looks very strong — with a great GPA, a solid research background, and impressive systems-level projects. To boost your chances further for the top 50 PhD programs in the US: Aim to publish in top-tier CS conferences (like PLDI, OSDI, SIGMOD, etc.) — this carries more weight than national journals. Secure strong letters of recommendation, ideally from well-known researchers in your field. Tailor your SOP to match specific labs/faculty and emphasize your relevant projects. Consider open-sourcing your work (like the OS or compiler) to show real-world impact. Apply to research internships (MPI-SWS, ETH Zurich, GSoC, etc.) — they can lead to collabs and publications. You’re definitely on the right track. Good luck!