peppermint.beatnik

For stuff like this I think it's a good idea to not exceed the stated length. If they say double space, you should space. I don't think schools are generally impressed by statements that try to get around required length. It's hard, but not impossible. Just go through and take out necessary words and sentences. I think shorter statements require more editing.

I've heard this many times, but I never quite understood the logic. I don't think I could do it. Let's say you become pregnant when you're ABD, and you are one of those people that can finish their dissertation in 6 months (btw-it's not common in humanities/social science), which you write during your mostly delightful pregnancy (which doesn't always happen either). By the time the baby comes, you only have to defend/look for jobs. If this happens, super, but I don't think it goes down like that too often. At least if you have the baby when you've got a job, you're not preoccupied with the possibility that you may not get a job because you are too distracted with your motherly duties to finish your dissertation. I have six nieces and nephews and I don't know how I could have a 1-3 year old in grad school. But, everyone's different.

I think it depends on what you find worthwhile in life. It's evident that you enjoy spending your time dumping on other people, and anything that doesn't support capitalistic values. You don't think that most people in humanities/social science know that it's not the golden ticket (monetary-wise)? But, they're still here, right?

We still have another month, at the earliest, before most schools reply. What are you doing to keep busy? Aside from my job as a civil servant, I like to ski, go out with friends, and watch brainless tv on occasion. I try to forget, at least temporarily about my applications, but it can be difficult. Am I alone in my neuroses?

I would strongly advise not to do this. Did you put in your sop that you spoke with Dr. so-and-so, who expressed interest in working with you? That's about all you can do. Telling a faculty member how to do their job would most likely backfire.

This form is more of a visa issue, than a departmental problem. Some of my schools wanted it sent with the application. To me, this means either, 1) if you get in, the process will not be delayed because we already have your form, or 2) if you provide it with application, the government will be less concerned about your study in the US. I know this because I inquired. However, it's different with every school. Some schools want it only if you're admitted.

I don't think it's conceited to post your acceptance on FB, but like the above poster, I've had issues in the past with FB (which is why I am not longer on it). I would have no problem telling anyone in person--more social control than an on-line medium.

Most people say that you shouldn't go to a PhD program unless you're funded. If they really want you, they'll find the money (not sure I would count the state of California in that right now, though) I know at least during my MA, where everyone was funded, there was constant tension about who got what grants. If you're not funded, I think it causes undesirable problems. Each area is different, but it's like that in my area (I would say any humanities/social science program. Can't speculate about sciences). MA is a bit different, because many MAs are not funded, or not fully funded.

I loathe facebook, so no. But if I did still have it, it would also be no. Facebook=social drama, from my experience.

lol, this was hilarious. It sounds like advice one of my mentors would give.

I've seen this blog before--she's usually quite good. I agree with most of the post (and some of the comments). I think GRE shows you can write a test in a timed situation--big deal. I did well only because I put the time into understanding how the test works.

I looked, and can't seem to find it. I applied last year and distinctly remember this being a topic of discussion. Maybe a mod can help you out.

Person at my MA school got a TT at 39.

I agree with what all of you are saying, but some people are just nasty when they have no reason to be. Haven't you ever had someone dislike you when you've never given them a reason? The same can happen with profs.

Agreed with above--it's a judgment call

Also, if you don't have funding in a program, and others do, it can create an unpleasant atmosphere.

There was a 2009 thread about this topic, I'm sure of it. Try searching the archives

I think it's good to keep it short and sweet. Introduce yourself (as others said), your background, what you're interested in, why you're interested in their work, etc. Sometimes you can ask about the fit of your interests, to them, and the program, but since it's after the deadline I'm not sure I'd do that. Maybe someone else has a suggestion for how to end it?

I did it last year, in New Orleans. Out of the four conferences where I've done papers, it was the best by far. Go to as many panels as you can--it's hard to choose!

This happened on several occasions during my undergrad. That and dumping on the admin, but that's not unusual for faculty.

agreed. Also, that person alone can't get you in, but they'll certainly help move your application along.

It just means, take another seminar, get an A. If you do, it will help your chances. It's not as good as getting an A in your core class, but it's better than doing nothing, right? Shows initiative, etc.

How does being able to choose an antonym (or whatever) in a timed situation have anything to do with ability to write?

I would discuss GRE, generally, but don't mention your GRE score. You can always take it again. You want to apply for Fall 2011, right? Sorry, I see you have already applied. I wouldn't mention your GRE score, talk about your many other strenghts

I'd say it's this, or she is really concerned with placing students in graduate school, i.e., aim low and greater chance of acceptance. I think the advice rather strange, though.