Well, I just got off the phone with both Fin Aid and admissions and I have to say that was the most helpful few minutes I've spent talking with them. Here's my report:
Financial Aid said that what happened to me was a system error and I don't have to do anything to get a new reward letter, that is, once admissions lets them know if I get accepted, they'll just resend the award letter.
I talked to a counselor about the waitlist but also the possibility that I may drop everything and reapply. I don't know if I let you all know this, but recent events in my father's health have emboldened me to try again for Texas, even with the significant risk.
For my situation, she said that I can explain it on TMDSAS and it probably won't be seen as a negative. I think there is more to it that I have to do, but it won't be an easy decision. I'm still torn as to what to do.
For the waitlist, she told us that there are no periods where they wait and call everyone at once. She says admissions calls as they get the notice from students that do not wish to attend. She also said that many students let them know over the phone if they will or will not attend, although it sounds like Marvo didn't get a chance to tell them.
That said, I don't know if there is a 2 week interval anymore, but rather they just do it whenever they want. Furthermore, she says that sometimes, for certain students, they do wait for the snail mail letter to decide on whether or not to accept more off the waitlist.
She also added that the waitlist movement as been unusually slow this year, at least initially. She suspects that after the deadlines, like we discussed, the movement will occur much faster, but it is still in essence a crapshoot, like any other waitlist.
That said, she ended this discussion with a note on the 'last moment' acceptances, which she says historically does happen. 1 or 2 students simply do not show up to orientation and so, a few lucky people will get a call to come immediately, which is insane, but again, it really can't be helped. I've already made up my mind that I would be one of those people who would sacrifice everything I've planned to attend, although it won't help my situation at all to tell them that.
As for reapplying and being on the waitlist (for others who might be considering this), she said that completing TMDSAS in July would be fine and that the two factors do not confound each other. She didn't say if it would be a benefit or a negative, but rather administratively, it won't mess up anything to reapply. I'm sure this has been done before, so I'm sure admissions is prepared for a few people like this.
So, that's my report. I think next Monday will bear some fruit for a few lucky souls and hopefully they'll report in. Until then, let it be.
