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Posted

For those apply to Northwestern, did you send your GRE scores? I did, but Im curious if they'll care. NWU said it was "optional."

 

I didn't. When I went to fill in the "self report your scores" section on their online application, I got a message that said "this department requests that you not report GRE scores," or something to that effect; not shelling out another $27 for a school that doesn't even want me to self-report the scores. 

Posted

I didn't either since the department says it does not want them. I did self report the scores because I didn't get a message that said not to. I paid $27 for each of my 12 other schools, I took the Northwestern freebie as a gift haha

Posted

Don't fret, LeventeL. I doubt it'll affect your application negatively. That's more important than the $27 :)

Posted

As everyone comes up to the first deadlines, Dec 1 for alot of schools, I think it's important that we all, if possible, do something fun and mind-numbing over the holidays and remember the following. It's not the end of the world if we don't get in and it no way diminishes our self-worth.

Posted

I agree with kblooms. Over the weekend, I played some volleyball under the cali sun in Santa Monica, and I completely forgot about my applications, the future, and work. It was soo relaxing.

Unfortunately, the new week starts again ... 

Posted

Don't fret, LeventeL. I doubt it'll affect your application negatively. That's more important than the $27 :)

 

Yeah I dont imagine it could hurt you. 

Posted

Everyone, please remember to relax a little bit over Thanksgiving, and, if possible, enjoy some time with your friends and/or family ;) Try to take some time off from worrying about applications if you can.

Posted

I did in my last round.... only because I told no one (except for my mother) that I was applying (again).  Even if someone asked, I responded, "I'm not applying this year."  The conversation moved away from graduate schools.  

 

It was an excellent idea in retrospect.

Posted

Hi pals! I'm jumping into the forum game late, but I'm applying to history programs this cycle, with a concentration in the Middle East. My job is very time-intensive, so unfortunately I have to push myself hard over the holiday to get my SOP and writing sample into top shape. So hopefully you won't see me around much! Because I'll be working! (Haha... ha.) Anyway, hi! Take care!

Posted

3 of 13 submitted. I do have a question about transcripts. Some schools require an uploaded unofficial transcript.  Is there a way around this requirement?  Two of my previous schools don't send emailed transcripts.  The application program itself won't let me submit.  Anyone else have any solutions in case I don't get the transcripts in time to scan and upload? 

Posted

If they require unofficial you can probably use your digital unofficial transcript on the school website. You go to your student center then academics and should be able to pull it up (if your program uses the same system as mine). Otherwise you should suck it up and buy the transcript, maybe have them deliver it rush mail or whatever. This isn't the time to try and circumvent application requirements. Save yourself the stress and do it all the right way. Good luck!

Posted

You could also email the registrar and ask if they can send some sort of unofficial version of the transcript by email or some other electronic delivery method if there's not one obviously available.

Posted

...i am now questioning the fact that i just scanned my official transcripts.  Isn't that the easiest thing to do?  Or are we talking about options for if you don't paper copies?

Posted

...i am now questioning the fact that i just scanned my official transcripts.  Isn't that the easiest thing to do?  Or are we talking about options for if you don't paper copies?

 

No this is fine, and exactly what you should do. Or just use your camera on your phone to take a picture.

Posted

...i am now questioning the fact that i just scanned my official transcripts.  Isn't that the easiest thing to do?  Or are we talking about options for if you don't paper copies?

 

That's what I did for a couple apps.  I actually had one school specifically ask for a scanned copy of an official transcript, so I guess it's not that uncommon.

Posted (edited)

Hypothetically, if I am missing something on my application, will I receive a notice from said program? I only ask because some of my LOR writers have still not submitted my letters, and all my applications (except for 2) are due on Monday *horror music*

Edited by LeventeL
Posted

Hypothetically, if I am missing something on my application, will I receive a notice from said program? I only ask because some of my LOR writers have still not submitted my letters, and all my applications (except for 2) are due on Monday *horror music*

 

Ah, thanks for asking this! None of my LORs have put in letters for any of my applications, and the program deadlines are all Dec 1 (except for two Dec 15s and and a Jan 15) -- I'm debating whether or not I should send them all an email, or assume they'll get it done on Monday. (And then if they don't get it done on Monday...?)

Posted

Also, another question(s)  that I've been meditating on for the last week or so.

 

Three of my POIs, during our phone/skype conversations, told me to shoot them an email when I've successfully submitted my application for their program. Should I just send a simple 2-3 sentence email saying that I did apply, and to keep an eye out for my application? (Im over thinking this ....)

 

In addition, should I offer my true interest to one POI by saying something like, "if I dont get accepted to your program, or any others (with the right financial package), then if possible I'd like to audit one of your classes to demonstrate my capabilities blahblahblah.." (ill embellish it more) I just want to truly express how passionate I am about my research interests, commitment to academia, and my interest in the program (which I did properly in my SOP).

 

I read somewhere on the internet about a psych applicant that had below a 3.0 ugpa, with decent gre scores, LORS, but with a fantastic SOP. He reached out to a POI in Stanford, talked over the phone, and met one or twice for coffee. Unfortunately, the applicant wasn't accept at first. When he got his rejection letter, he again reached out to his POI, told him about the letter and said that hes still committed to study under him and would reapply next season. the prof was so mesmerized that he somehow overruled the adcoms decision.

 

I dont know if this story is true (it was on a blog lol), but I can still see something like this happening. I could be wrong though. You're welcome to input your comments about this story. I posted a link below. But the point Im trying to make is, I'd like to maximize my chances of acceptance. Im confident that I took all the right steps with my application; however I would still like to take extra steps.

 

 

http://www.howigotintostanford.com/ 

Posted

If they asked you specifically to get in contact after the application was submitted, I would do it. I wouldn't do it to try and mesmerize anyone, although that story made me lol...sounds like a dream come true. 

 

I've opted to not contact any POIs at this point because I'm concerned it'll look like I'm trying to influence the admissions process and I'm sure they're ridiculously busy with their classes and, in the coming months, going through applications.

 

As for the LOR, I've read on the board that most programs are understanding when rec writers submit after the deadline because they know that it's out of the students' hands (this would make me freak the f*ck out, though haha my last rec writer submitted this morning and I felt like the world lifted off my shoulders). Have you sent them any sort of reminder, or kept in close contact with them? If you haven't, I'd shoot them a quick email letting them know you've officially submitted all applications, attach a list of programs and deadlines with the final draft of your SOP, and thank them for all their help.

Posted

I've opted to not contact any POIs at this point because I'm concerned it'll look like I'm trying to influence the admissions process and I'm sure they're ridiculously busy with their classes and, in the coming months, going through applications.

 

 

Darn ... And I was planning to bake 12 cakes to send to the adcoms   :rolleyes: If my application isnt good enough, then my baking skills will convince them otherwise lol

Posted

Can you bake me a cake too? I need all the sugary goodness I can get to keep me happy and sane!

Hint hint chocolate and banana flavor hint hint ;)

Posted

Three different people in towns near schools I applied to found my academia.edu page this week. Hm.

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