Communicating Interest Though I Need Time

[Unimpressed3D]

I'm supposed to return a call to school A tomorrow. But I'm still waiting to hear back from 10 other schools. I want to communicate that I'm excited, flattered, that it's pretty high on my list, but that I still want to wait for the other schools.

It's a good offer, with good funding. I would be happy to accept, but I can't very well do that this early in the game.

But how do you communicate that? Respectfully, while still coming across as happy about it as I am?

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! This is my first time going through all this, and it's frankly very intimidating!

[Sura]

@Unimpressed3D

Hi,

I had the exact same problem. Some places contacted me quite early. My guide suggested me to be professional in my approach. Tell them that you really like their program, ask a lot of questions about their group/funding/school in general. Remember that they have been doing this for a long time and they understand that you are looking forward to hearing from other places as well. In case they ask you to make a decision, you MUST let them know that you have applied to other places as well and are looking forward to hearing from them as well. You don't want to commit yourself prematurely to the place, however high it's ranked on your list. Let them know you need time. Most likely, they won't ask you about other places (they just wanted me to let them know once I was close to a decision - either acceptance or rejection), in which case you are fine. It's always good to sound diplomatic and at the same time excited. Do take the advice of professors in your school too as they would definitely guide you better.

[Unimpressed3D]

Thanks, Sura. He gave me a few days' range to call, so maybe I shouldn't do it today. I have classes most of the day...but this whole week is really busy, with a midterm and a paper due. It's chaotic applying while still trying to finish up your undergrad degree.

Anyway, I hardly know what questions to ask, though I'm very curious about the program and have tons of ideas of what I might like to do there. They have certain special advantages that most of the other schools don't have, in terms of specialization in my interest areas. I just don't want to sound scattered and start "winnowing in every wind."

[rising_star]

Look around here for threads on questions to ask programs, @Unimpressed3D. There are a number of them both general and discipline-specific.