Thanks losemygrip for the encouragement but a lot of it IS the luck of the draw in that these highly competitive programs are looking for criteria that fit a well rounded group of graduates that can contribute to each other's experience. So much of graduate school is having a diverse group contributing to the curriculum with the guidance of the faculty. Most of the graduates organize with the faculty the list of visiting lecturers so each person has to provide a unique and fresh perspective so that everything is balanced. Even having a solid application with outstanding work may not be the winning ticket.
I do think that waiting after undergrad is a really great experience for those that decide to do so. :-) It's certainly not easy to find that momentum or routine in "making money," finding time for studio work, continuing to be inspired and curious, in addition to keeping yourself informed on what is happening locally and globally in the arts. I have met many graduates from top schools who decide to not continue practicing because they weren't able to transition into the working world. Some of them ended up leaving the industry all-together and others are teaching but haven't continued making work. I almost feel like those that didn't have the luxury to end up with positions that have career potential but were scrubbing floors/wiping tables so-to-speak found much more urgency to figure out a way to create value in themselves through their practice. I think that kind of sacrifice and sense of urgency really builds a confidence in practice which is invaluable.
Also, know that this application process for grad school is really the beginning to many other apps if not the same as applying to residencies, and commissions. LOL After this comes numerous applications for grants, fellowships, public projects, you name it! It's funny, I was talking to another doctorate student and we laughed about how we thought that applying to grad school/her doctorate program would be the last of this painful process but no no no...the fun only begins after having graduated. Cheers to all of us on that same path!!!