I have recently been reconsidering my PhD applications. I really want to get a PhD eventually but I have been extremely stressed throughout the entire application process and I am beginning to think I need more time before I commit to such an intense program. I received an interview, and I have not been able to think straight since because I am so nervous about it. However, if I withdraw my application, I would want to apply again either next year, or the year after. Do you think withdrawing my application is a bad idea? Will they not allow me to reapply? Any opinions on this?
question about withdrawing application
- Thread starter phdpsych
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I know that schools ask if you have ever applied there before. I do not know what bearing that has on your application... nor do I know what it reflects. But - I do know that applications can be labeled "withdrawn" for a myriad of reasons. Last year, my applications were incomplete bc one of my profs did not send in my letter of rec on time - I just found out recently that they have categorized it as an application withdrawal. SO - I'm thinking that they should not make assumptions nor let that influence your future application.
What do you think about going through the rest of the process with the school that invited you to interview, and then if accepted - deferring for a year?
What do you think about going through the rest of the process with the school that invited you to interview, and then if accepted - deferring for a year?
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I would go interview and check it out. See what it's like in person first.
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I wouldn't withdraw just yet.
Go to the interview and see what it's like - but in your mind imagine that you're just going for the experience, for a nice time. If they accept you, great!, and then at that point you can decide what to do (defer or reject). [Although if you reject, I doubt it'd be worth your while to reapply there again].
You never know - your nervousness could go down once you hit this interview. And think about it - if you're considering withdrawing, you really have nothing to lose by going. All you can do is gain. If you apply again next year, having that interview experience may make the difference between finally feeling ready and still feeling nervous.
To be honest, I don't know how withdrawals are looked upon - I assume to a point, as someone else said, they would be understanding. The question is whether the person you're interested would be taking students the following year.
Go to the interview and see what it's like - but in your mind imagine that you're just going for the experience, for a nice time. If they accept you, great!, and then at that point you can decide what to do (defer or reject). [Although if you reject, I doubt it'd be worth your while to reapply there again].
You never know - your nervousness could go down once you hit this interview. And think about it - if you're considering withdrawing, you really have nothing to lose by going. All you can do is gain. If you apply again next year, having that interview experience may make the difference between finally feeling ready and still feeling nervous.
To be honest, I don't know how withdrawals are looked upon - I assume to a point, as someone else said, they would be understanding. The question is whether the person you're interested would be taking students the following year.
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I too find that the application process is soooo stressful. At one point, I began to think that if the applications were this difficult, then imagine actaully being in grad school.
Please do yourself the favor and see what it's all about. Go to the interview and than make your decision. I guarantee that there are a lot of people willing to jump to take your spot. You got an interview!! You don't need to wait a year. You need to seize the moment! Good luck
Please do yourself the favor and see what it's all about. Go to the interview and than make your decision. I guarantee that there are a lot of people willing to jump to take your spot. You got an interview!! You don't need to wait a year. You need to seize the moment! Good luck
