crazypoligirl

Got my rejection today, that's cool; a little wounded, but that's alright.

Since I was the OP, maybe she was just lying to me because she didn't want to be put in the awkward position of telling me that I didn't win the award (although I will say, I didn't tell her my name, so the question of emailing all recipients or just some still stands)... Who knows!?! Either way, it would have been nice if they would have just sent all emails if they were going to send some; just seems like we are all experiencing a bit of unnecessary anxiety.

Well I just called and the woman said that they only emailed decisions to those who communicated urgency in hearing the decision (i.e. funding deadlines). If you did not email with such a request, then you will find out standard post. She also told me that all decisions were sent out this week and should be arriving by next week (depending on where you live of course). Personally, I applied for the pre-doctoral fellowship... I asked her how many apps that had for that one, and she told me 1300.....for 60 spots. My heart fell to the floor a little, I must admit. I really hope I got it. In any case, we should all be finding *something* out soon. Good luck everyone!

Please, oh please, can someone give some insider info re getting this fellowship? Thanks!

Wow, you are REALLY intense. With that said, your situation is really unfortunate, I wish you nothing but the best. BTW, I thought all those big name companies had a money back guarantee? I know PR did in my case... well, actually, now that I think about it, they gave me the option to take the course again. (gee, thanks) The one silver lining in the GRE game is that at least it's not like the LSAT, all or nothing; so many schools will only look at your best scores (even if they are spread amongst different test dates).

I took the GRE twice and similarly struggled with the math section at first. The trick is realizing that the test is designed to pray on those cobwebs that you may have collected since last formally studying math. In all actuality, the math section only tests VERY basic arithmetic, algebra and geometry in order to ensure a level playing field for all. (because that would totally be unfair if those math majors had an unfair advantage!) With that said, it really is just a matter of being able to put the puzzle pieces together, and see the bigger picture. I know, I know, easier said than done! Kaplan has an AWESOME prep book that only focuses on the math section. It breaks down the different topics in AMAZING detail. Even better, it provides NUMEROUS practice questions, because this test is not only about knowing how to do the problems, but being able to pace yourself and work through them more efficiently. In fact, after a while you will notice patterns in the questions, and will be able to pick up the common tricks by just glancing at a question. What I trying to say is that, yes, you want to gain the math skills, but you would be better served by understanding the psyche of those who create the test. With this inside perspective, you will better be able to anticipate the curve balls being thrown at you on test day. Before I get too far off track, I ABSOLUTELY endorse that Kaplan book. It breaks the concepts down better than ANY book that I have looked at. It was kind of hard to find; actually only found it by chance at a random book store, but it is definitely worth investigating a bit. As far as my study POA, I studied 4+ hours a day , everyday without fail. I know you may be working full time, but that is simply no excuse. I was working full time at a litigation firm (50+ hours/week) while volunteering, exercising 5 times a week, keeping my significant other happy... etc. I say all this because I think success on the GRE (for those that don' t have that natural ability) boils down to shear will. How much do you really want it? How much time are you willing to put in? What are you willing to give up? You have got to be committed, even when it is the last thing you want to do. Stepping off of my soap box now, probably one of the other most important factors in performing better is simply feeling more confident. I know it is corny, but most people who don't do well on standardized tests don't lack intelligence, they lack confidence. Thus, your primary objective should be building your confidence, after that everything else should fall into place. Re Test Prep Companies Once upon a time, I was headed for law school and I took one of PR's courses. It was a waste of time and a ton of hard earned money, in my opinion. I think those courses are designed for those that, perhaps, lack discipline and need more structure (deadlines, etc.)?? But if you do decide to go that route, I have heard great things about testmasters. They are more expensive than Kaplan or PR, but they consistently coach people into 90+ percentile (I know a few). Anyways, this is just all my opinion. Every person is different and you are probably more attuned to your needs. Just know that you CAN coach yourself into a higher score. It will just take some commitment and good old fashion sweat on your part... but I guess since you are planning on pursuing a phd, you are not the type to shy away from a challenge By the way, I applied to 11 phd programs, was accepted into 4 (including a Top 25 program) as well as UChicago's MAPSS program... so, I guess I know what I am talking about?? Good luck!

Thanks so much! I was looking at the resumes of some of my future colleagues and it seemed like their experiences were all over the place. For example, there was one person that only presented at three conferences and published once and is graduating in June, yet there was also someone who was a third year that had presented at 10+ conferences and published at least five times. They both came in with Masters, so I thought I could easily compare their experiences. Anyways, thanks again!

Hello All, It has been a while since i have visited the forum, but congrats to everyone! Like many of you, I am making the big leap next fall! I, too, am excited, but also extremely anxious! I have a question for all of you. When is a good time to start presenting papers at conferences? I know that it is an important exercise in the field, and that sooner is better than later, but beyond that I am left wondering.... No one wants to jump the gun and look silly, but you also don't want to drag your feet..... for those of you who have presented or have more of an insider's perspective on the issue.. what do you think? thanks!

My sentiment exactly. I thought "that's nice" and kept it moving. There is NO WAY I would EVER do that, particularly because it's in Boston!!! Seriously, one of the most expensive cities in America!

Just got a letter telling me I am in at Boston University... but no funding

Thanks everybody, you all are reaffirming my gut instinct. I am still waiting on a couple more programs, but seeing as Brown was my top pick to begin with (aside from UChicago), dare I say it??????.....PROVIDENCE HERE I COME!

Thanks for your thoughts!

Does anyone have any idea of Brown's placement history for those focusing on American politics? I would appreciate any articles, links, etc. I was going to email the department but thought that I would ask here first! Thanks guys!

hahaha! if only... i am still waiting on my chicago and columbia rejections...

That was unnecessarily rude, especially since he/she was just trying to be helpful. Granted, it was confusing as heck given the typos.. but come on! Be polite, we are all human here!