Can anyone help me?

[audambition]

Advertisement - Members don't see this ad

I am applying Fall 09 and had some questions for past and current applicants:

-How many schools did you apply/plan to apply for?
-Do most schools require an interview process?
-Did anyone visit the schools applying and was this successful?
-If you apply earlier, do you hear back from them earlier whether you got -accepted or rejected, or everyone hears around the same time whether you turn it in during September vs. January....


Thanks a bunch everyone! Because of you guys, I've learned a lot about this process 🙂 I really appreciate it!

 

[AudNaples]

Dear audambition,
-How many schools did you apply/plan to apply for? I applied to four different schools across the country.
-Do most schools require an interview process? The schools I applied to had an interview process. If the school does not, I recommend visiting the school to see if it would be a good fit for you.
-Did anyone visit the schools applying and was this successful?
I visited all of the schools I applied to. This can put a face with a name when faculty members are reviewing your application.
-If you apply earlier, do you hear back from them earlier whether you got -accepted or rejected, or everyone hears around the same time whether you turn it in during September vs. January....
Hmmm. I think all of the schools got back to me around the same time regardless of when I turned in the application.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions.
Sincerely,
~AuDNaples

 

[audiot]

1. Four. IMO disparity is more important than quantity. I simply picked the two schools I wanted to get into most, then for the last two I chose fall-back options. It certainly doesn't hurt to apply to more, but as you will find out it can become quite arduous and consuming.

Look carefully, there ARE schools who accept virtually anyone who applies so long as they meet the minimum requirements set forth by the department (they can be lower than you think). Said schools will generally get 10-15 applications a year, accept everyone, and by due process only 5 or 6 actually matriculate.

2. The top programs tend to require an interview. Remember to dress and act professional. They are judging whether they can see you as a colleague, and your ability to interact with others.

3. If the school doesn't require an interview it is in your best interest to schedule an official visit with the department.

4. You will not hear until the departmental selection committee convenes and makes their selections. They do this after the deadline because there are people (like me) who wait until the very last minute to send them in.

 

[DrNickels]

I am applying Fall 09 and had some questions for past and current applicants:

-How many schools did you apply/plan to apply for?
-Do most schools require an interview process?
-Did anyone visit the schools applying and was this successful?
-If you apply earlier, do you hear back from them earlier whether you got -accepted or rejected, or everyone hears around the same time whether you turn it in during September vs. January....


Thanks a bunch everyone! Because of you guys, I've learned a lot about this process 🙂 I really appreciate it!

1. I applied to 3 schools. Ohio University, Kent State, Akron University
2. Most in Ohio do not, but I'd recommend visiting the faculty there since it's good to put a face/personality with a name and achievements
3. Yes and it was nice to meet the faculty and see the facilities and get a feel for the program
4. No. Most schools have a set date when the first round of acceptance letters go out.
5. Everyone hears around the same time unless of course you are wait listed, then you have to wait a little while.

If you have any further questions feel free to message me.