R Deckard

24 is a multiple of 2*2*2 = 8. 10 is not. 12 is not. You can't combine factors like that. Consider this: an even number is divisible by 2 and 2, but not necessarily 4.

The top candidates typically have high GRE scores. The top schools typically don't place a lot of value on these scores... they may have score cutoffs, though, so my statement may have been a bit misleading.

It's really the other way around.

First, assume that nobody will find your jokes funny. Then, consider whether you would still like to include them.

I had the same mentality when applying. I would recommend only applying to schools that you would be happy attending even if you get into similar quality programs...

I agree. My initial reaction is: no, you're not unique. And it's not an interesting way to present yourself. Just start with the good stuff...

I applied to 13 schools. In retrospect, I probably would have applied to 10.

They retire?

Really don't care -- mostly just think you're a loser for asking.

Do you think being related to this person makes you more deserving of a spot in said graduate program? If so, go for it...

In my experience: one. To clarify, I had one very strong letter, and two "good" letters that probably didn't make much difference, and I got into 5 or so top 20 programs (I got into virtually every program where my strongest letter writer was well-known).

CS @ UIUC doesn't look at GRE scores.

How is 3-4 days fast? Did he say he wrote the letter in 15 minutes? Did you expect him to write the next great American novel about your research ability?

I had a few and it didn't seem to affect my outcome at all. You can PM me about it if you like.

I agree -- keeping some separation between school and social life is a good idea. It's important to do things that make you an interesting person besides studying something cool (to me at least). Then it's much easier to socialize, as well. This cracked me up.

800 was 94th percentile when the new system was implemented.

Re OP: Yes

When people ask you to do favors like that, just say "no" immediately. Then it's really clear. "Hey, can you read these papers early and help me?" "No." Then they'll understand that you don't want to and aren't willing to do it. It works really well.

I'm a social excluder. Even as a first year.

What are you interested in knowing?

If the textbooks are not missing pages or otherwise defective/damaged in a way that wasn't apparent when you sold them, I don't see why you should even bother responding. The fact that she doesn't want the textbook anymore is in no way your responsibility.

Suck it up.

Oh, I just meant on groceries.

I actually just meant that I was walking on sunshine. But I love American Psycho. So hey, fun video.

Am I the only one that spends $400-500/month on groceries? And I buy everything in bulk.