Some Radical Re-Considerations

[bdon19]

Okay, so, as some of you know (based on my blog entry), I had a really discouraging meeting with one of my letter-writers earlier this week. She had a very pessimistic attitude towards my applications in general, particularly regarding the schools I had on my list and the fact that my writing sample does not engage with the period I will be focusing on. I won't go into specifics now, but I've decided that I feel so strongly about using the writing sample I'd planned on that I will NOT be taking her advice in that matter. I know how to tie my writing sample together with my interests in my SoP, and I will do that. Interestingly, almost all of the schools that had (until now) made the final cut on my list do not specify that it is preferred to submit a writing sample in your proposed field (which many others, I can now see, do).

Any advice contrary to (or in support of) my decision regarding the writing sample would be appreciated. However, my main concern lies with the programs I'm applying to.

Up until now, I felt fairly confident in my list. I've made a few substitutions here and there, but it has for the most part stayed the same. Now, I want to do some drastic re-considering. I know some programs will remain the same--Indiana, Rutgers, Texas--but others may (sadly, in some cases) have to go. How might you suggest I go about re-researching? Previously, I was looking into programs that were strong for all of my interests; should I instead be considering one field a priority? Or is it still smart to look at the whole picture?

[wassermelone]

It would be helpful to know what your professor's concerns with your list of programs were. Faculty, reputation, funding, coursework, etc. . . . ? Or was she not specific?