spunkrag

They very last candidate that gets in the program still gets the same degree when they finish. I wouldn't sweat being a "top" candidate--just because they're a "top ranked" candidate doesn't mean they're better scholars anyhow.

I'd say its all paperwork at this pointe.

It depends. Anywhere from the next day to a few weeks. I guess a lot of it is determined by where you fit into how they will dole out acceptance/funding offers. Hang tight. I'm sure you will hear a decision you like soon enough.

\ That is not funny, and is disrespectful to native Hawai'ians

People are different and say weird things. I'll agree that the initial convo with her does sound a bit odd, but just as the above poster alluded to none of us were there so its hard to say what might have irked her. None of this sounds real bad. Just try and hang in there, but nothing here sends up any red flags.

I love how there's this assumption that I must not have any experience with either grad school or the specific situation this person is in. I have both, and in situations where professors are abusing their authority and the department chair is weak and unwilling to do anything about it--not uncommon--the solution is to find an administrative authority to deal with the issue. I get the sense that there is probably more going on with this faculty member, and it is something that should be addressed.

2.7. Hmmmm.

Get out now. Find a new advisor because it will only get worse with the current one. You already went to the department chair, and if they don't do anything go to the dean. It is likely that you aren't the first that has had this issue with this idiot--its possible (or likely) they've had issues with every grad student they've ever had. If you go to a higher power at the university it is important to be respectful and professional, but also remember (as so many faculty often forget) that the arrangement you have is no different than any other workplace--harassment, bullying, and intimidation are termable offences and you have the right to be free of such things.

Give it some time. I didn't start enjoying grad school until the 5th year of my program, when the light at the end of the tunnel became more apparent and I was publishing, through comps, and had a clear path for dissertating. I am sorry to hear, though, of your troubles. I hope I didn't come across this thread too late. Or maybe you have left the program and it is the best thing that ever happened. Either way, I hope you find what you want.

Rainbow sprinkles

who voted this post down? seriously?

Narrow your interests for research; find an MA program; hit it out of the park while you are there. Then, when you get close to being done you can evaluate whether obtaining a Ph D suits your career needs, but until then it would be advisable to focus on completing an MA with the highest degree of competency possible. I think that would be the most remunerative route.

rate of return

glands is hard. just sayin' glands examination

Just wondering. I don't think so.

You would be amazed how quick some of you start to remedy your bad mood.

I hear from the undergrads all the time, every day, all day. It never ends. Long weekends over summer are the worst. Things get going on Friday afternoon and don't stop until Monday at 11p.

cold sweat

People wear sweatpants for the darnedest reasons. Really, it doesn't take much with some people to get things going.

You would be surprised how many of us there are around here.

You're right. They spend their time doing less productive things.

They have already been relaxing, believe me. It get's going pretty early around here on Fridays.