tryffelgris

have the mass rejections gone out yet?

In a word: no. One of my undergrad profs basically told me he has absolutely no opinion on UCLA. Which somehow seems like a bad thing. I know there are definitely reasons UCLA is ranked well-- strong demography people, etc-- but it doesn't seem to have an easily palatable "reputation" like other top schools.

are you really considering JHU, ejuliast? seems like the odd one out given your other choices. i'm on the waiting list...can you tell? other people who might not be interested in their spots at JHU...when do you think you might tell the department?

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...and, more specifically, how old are people in most soc cohorts? Do you think age matters? Why/why not? Just thought I'd try a diversion, since it appears that the schools I'm still waiting to hear from are taking their sweet time.

31K? WOW. I guess that school has finances in order. Meanwhile, I was offered $15K fellowship and 2 years of TA/RAship at similar amount for Sociology at a public school with a very high COL and 23K for 5 years (2 TA) at a private school, also high COL (maybe even higher). I want to go to the public school, but the funding really seems inadequate for the city. What to do?

I must say I'm torn about this. On the one had, if this was a regular employer (and considering the age of most graduate students and the duration of the programs, I largely see graduate school as employment) I would definitely say it would be foolish not to negotiate, even if you are the only one. Employers will give you as little as they think they can; it's up to you to ask for more in this system. On the other hand, graduate schools are also obviously providing us with a service-- education and credentials. I just don't know. Also, would you accept a funding offer that was only for 3 years?

Based on last year's results on this site, I'd say it's probably over. Two people were admitted one day and then everyone else was rejected the next day, it seems. Sadly.

good god. that string of acceptances makes all kinds of sense now. i sure pity the person who gets read after your application (including myself, for our few overlaps)

$1800 rent?! That's totally outrageous on what UCLA is offering ($15,000). Has anyone had experience with asking for more funding?

holy shit. i thought maybe UCLA had to cut back because of the budget crisis. but that wouldn't make sense if cal is being so generous. why the major discrepancy?

low-ball as in i should negotiate?? clearly, i don't know what i'm doing. any advice?

I'm a sociology applicant, but I can't help but notice poli sci results. I also can't help but gawk at your HUGE stipends. I'm new to this, but I figured that the two departments would be relatively similar. My UCLA funding package begs to differ. Are those 22-25k fellowships for 5 years? Pure fellowships-- you don't have TA or RA? Congrats to you all!

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If you don't mind my asking, what kind of funding do these fancy pants private institutions offer? I'm mourning my humble public school offer...