Hello,
I can very much relate to what you people are discussing here. After applying for two years finally I got into University of Kansas. For me PhD was the ultimate thing and am very happy to finally get it. Also, a bit apprehensive since I would be travelling to a different continent altogether, not knowing a soul there, but excited as well at the same time for meeting new people from different cultures and ideologies. I believe in today's globalized world, it will make me a better world citizen.
Looking forward to making some lifetime friends and memories.
Good luck to all.