Applicantion reviews

[sumstorm]

---

Members don't see this ad.

So, for those of you who have gone through the application process and needed to arrange file/application reviews, how did you do that? As in, did you arrange for reviews over the phone, via email, or in person? Was there specific questions you asked? Is there specific information that it would help to have on hand? What information did you receive?

I guess I am just looking for a general overview of how this procedure works.... I haven't ever done this before, and when I contacted Purdue, I was kind of put off till after April.

 

[nyanko]

The rejection email I got from UC Davis last year had this in it:

If you wish to discuss your application with us, please call our office to schedule an appointment at (530)752-1383 between 8:30 a.m.-12 noon and 1:00-5:00 p.m.

So look at your rejections I guess and figure out where they want you to call. I just called and said that I had been rejected and wanted to schedule a meeting to talk about ways to improve my application, and they told me to call back after a certain date and they would schedule it (I'm sure they were busy with setting things up for the incoming class). It got scheduled for June, I believe. So it could very well be awhile.

My actual file review was in person, with the admissions director. This was easy because I live in Davis. However, I'd heard of people doing them over the phone as well. She had my application in front of her, and I asked about my interview and any general comments they had. I asked a question about a personal issue that I had that impaired my academic progress and whether it was appropriate to put in the explanation section. I also asked if the writing portion of my GRE score was a major issue. I already had plans to enter into the MS program at this point, so I asked if that would be something that would improve my application, as well.

She was straightforward with me, not pessimistic or optimistic, more realistic which I appreciate. I made a thread about it that day on here, if you do a search for threads I started I'm sure you'll find it.

 

[DocDVMD]

I arranged a file review with Cornell, and I went in person. The admissions director here is very nice and helpful, so I definitely felt at ease. I came in khakis and a sweater, just to look put-together, but nothing fancy. She spent a good deal of time talking to me, not only about my application but just nice conversation! However, I found the review itself pretty unhelpful. She basically told me that she had been rooting for me, and my application was good, but there were just too many good applicants for too few seats. She said there isn't really anything definitive I could do to improve my application, but maybe getting a little more large animal experience to round out my app would help next time. I'm still hoping to get in this year though!

Overall, the admissions offices are pretty good about scheduling you and talking to you about your application. Don't be shy.