What's the best way to say "I'm waiting for other decisions" first?

[darkskroob]

I had a phone interview yesterday with the program director for a grad school that ranks somewhere in the middle of my top choices. The interview lasted about ten minutes and she basically told me that I'm in pending, of course, the other committee members approval. We then scheduled a follow up interview for next week where she said she wanted to plan out things like enrollment, classes, and scheduling. I haven't heard from two of my top schools yet and I'm trying to think of the best and most professional way to say "Your school is one of my top choices but I want to wait for other decisions to come through first before making any commitments." Any suggestions?

[rainy_day]

"Your school is one of my top choices but I want to wait for other decisions to come through first before making any commitments." Any suggestions?

I think you just said it.

I would still have that follow up interview with her, and definitely show your enthusiasm.

Congrats! This is great news!

[solairne]

I had a phone interview yesterday with the program director for a grad school that ranks somewhere in the middle of my top choices. The interview lasted about ten minutes and she basically told me that I'm in pending, of course, the other committee members approval. We then scheduled a follow up interview for next week where she said she wanted to plan out things like enrollment, classes, and scheduling. I haven't heard from two of my top schools yet and I'm trying to think of the best and most professional way to say "Your school is one of my top choices but I want to wait for other decisions to come through first before making any commitments." Any suggestions?

I think you should come out and just say it as you did overhead. If they're interested in you, they're not going to have their feelings hurt and reject you after accepting you for saying that. Just tell them what you said above and all will play out smoothly.

PS - What program are you in that you area already hearing in December? Spring admissions?

[ScreamingHairyArmadillo]

I am thirding this suggestion. It's what I did, granted in an email so I didn't feel as pressured to not stumble over my words. But they will be used to hearing it, and one of my contacts said he expects it of all students anyway.

[darkskroob]

PS - What program are you in that you area already hearing in December? Spring admissions?

I applied to Hofstra for a teaching degree in ESL. The funny thing is I applied for fall 2010 admission but I sent out all of my applications at the end of November 2009 (I just wanted to get them over and done with).

[jacib]

I applied to Hofstra for a teaching degree in ESL. The funny thing is I applied for fall 2010 admission but I sent out all of my applications at the end of November 2009 (I just wanted to get them over and done with).

Since it's a teaching degree, I don't know if funding applies in your case, but if you absolutely feel obliged to offer a reason, just say you're waiting to hear back about other funding packages.

[jlee306]

I agree, you should just say it as you did in your question.