application "deadlines"

[margarets]

Hmph!

In early Jan 2012, I decided to get serious about applying to a particular grad program in my area. I assumed that it was too late for Fall 2012, but when I checked the program's website, it looked like I might still make it, if I really stepped on it. I spent about 6 weeks pulling things together, but realized I was rushing it. I wouldn't be able to submit the best application I am capable of in that timeframe (esp. re: my thesis topic; I wanted to do more reading before approaching POIs). So in mid-March I emailed the very nice program coordinator to thank her for her help and let her know I would apply next year.

Today I checked the program's website again and JUST LAST FRIDAY they said they were finally closed to applications. (They are still reviewing a few, apparently.) Jeez Louise, if I'd known I could have MORE THAN TWO MONTHS to keep working on my application, I would have. I would have been ready by THEN, but I thought even the end of March was pushing it.

It's not the end of the world, but I hope someone else gets the value of this lesson: Just go ahead and apply and know that deadlines can be remarkably flexible.