sandflea, ajm,
Hmmm. I think I'm bitter
This is quite a turnaround from posts some time ago, but I think you're onto something with respect to MA's vs PhD's. I'm from the humanities, so finishing either (thesis-based) doesn't have a whole lot to do with coursework. On the other hand, most of my friends in science MA's have a strict schedule that their entire program is on.
I applied from a humanities PhD, and god only knows when we decide to finish those, at least in my field.
The very sad fact is that my premed admissions office assured me that I was in a prime position to apply. I now know they didn't know their asses from their elbows as far as grad students go.
UNMC and Loyola both told me flat out that my grad student status was a problem--after I applied. I was done with coursework and needed to write the diss. But again, that time frame can be iffy, so that was probably a big part of the problem. Naturally this would not apply to vegeta's situation.
What a horrible experience. I just wouldn't want to wish that on anyone, and I guess I'm out there sending out "caution" flags in a panic.
It sounds like science MA's are pretty safe to apply from--perhaps PhD's too.
Thanks again for the perspective.
Me? I'll get over it, eh?