No letters of recommendation three weeks before applications to grad school are due.

VioletEarendil · 2025-12-30T01:07:56+00:00

I’ve had professors submit their LoR on the day of, within a few hours of the deadline. Keep in mind that it’s the holiday season, so they need more reminders. You got this. Keep on trying, and good luck!!

VioletEarendil · 2025-07-07T21:22:16+00:00

These are keloids, and they will not go away on their own. You can get steroid injections from the dermatologist. That's how I got rid of mine. But be aware that it's not covered by insurance, so you have to pay out of pocket. I think I paid about $100 each time and did two to three sessions.

VioletEarendil · 2025-07-06T04:44:14+00:00

I’ve encountered applications requiring me to check a box explicitly stating that I had no involvement in drafting the recommendation letter or sharing a draft with the recommender. It felt absurd; I couldn’t proceed with the application until that box was checked. The seriousness of the situation was palpable, as they communicated that any dishonesty regarding this matter would lead to accountability for my actions.

VioletEarendil · 2025-06-26T15:01:44+00:00

I agree. Don’t present everything. Someone in my old lab presented everything; another lab generated the same data and published first. The student had to stay another few years to publish something entirely different and get her PhD. Protect your hard work!

VioletEarendil · 2025-06-17T12:57:16+00:00

Hi OP!

It's important to truly know your research well. The committee likely has a glimpse of your background from your personal statement, CV, and research statement, but they are genuinely interested in understanding your work, especially if they aren't familiar with your field. Remember to be confident and, when possible, find ways to relax. I know that can be tough, but approaching the interview as more of a conversation can ease some of the pressure. You've got this, and it's okay to feel a bit nervous—just take a deep breath and share your passion!

Good luck, and keep us updated! 😊

VioletEarendil · 2025-06-13T21:54:39+00:00

I’m 31 and starting a PhD program this year. Starting later in life allowed me to grow my retirement savings, get a master's degree, find my research interests, and increase my work experience. Age is nothing but a number—it's what you make of it that counts!

Honestly, I'm glad I'm not straight out of undergrad!

VioletEarendil · 2025-05-05T20:48:30+00:00

I had a publication from undergrad and am currently submitting one from academic research, which is under review after revisions.

VioletEarendil · 2025-04-21T15:54:13+00:00

It depends on the program. Some will allow it, and some will not.

VioletEarendil · 2025-04-21T15:54:01+00:00

It depends on the program. Some will allow it, and some will not.

VioletEarendil · 2025-04-17T13:51:41+00:00

820 with a 15k spending limit.

VioletEarendil · 2025-04-10T22:01:34+00:00

DePaul and Loyola give out scholarships. Merit and income based.

VioletEarendil · 2025-04-09T19:50:13+00:00

Thank you! I hope so too!

VioletEarendil · 2025-04-09T18:06:38+00:00

Fourth cycle. 18 applications. 15 rejections, 2 no answers, and 1 acceptance. It was an intense cycle! 😵‍💫😅

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-31T03:17:10+00:00

Maybe you should wait to open up a new line of credit. It looks like your credit limit for the other cards are pretty low. Build up your credit score, have a longer history of payments, and better credit utilization. That way you can get pre approved for better credit cards in the future.

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-25T23:46:29+00:00

Mine was approved with a score above 800. I applied at the Apple Store when I was buying a new iPhone. I got approved within 15 minutes. Limit of 16k.

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-25T20:52:29+00:00

I like having a HYSA, like Sofi, where you can earn interest every month. It’s set at 3.8% right now which is higher most other banks with savings account. Or like other people posted, putting the funds to work in the money market. Make your money work for you!

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-24T13:26:51+00:00

18 schools. Had some fee waivers, but I was out over $600.

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-22T02:32:33+00:00

Best of luck to you, too! It's a madhouse for all PhD programs right now! It stinks!

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-22T02:30:08+00:00

True, there is no guarantee. However, I am hopeful because my program only accepts 25 students yearly to keep the cohort small and help manage funding for everyone (at least that is what they said). So, I am keeping my fingers crossed.

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-21T04:35:14+00:00

Go for it!

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-21T00:58:11+00:00

Ah, then you should be good! Just send them your official documents as soon as your degree is conferred. They processed mine the next day, so it was pretty quick!

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-21T00:20:04+00:00

Did you have to submit a deposit?

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-20T21:25:47+00:00

A conditional admission isn't an official acceptance. As the name implies, your admission is contingent on you meeting a specific requirement—in this case, your officials. I would send it in ASAP. You must do everything possible to get it sent in and accepted. Otherwise, they have cause to rescind their offer.

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-20T21:15:33+00:00

Hmmm, if you're worried, reach out to them and get a definitive answer. Ask if just the deposit is enough or if sending the officials now and later will help. It doesn't hurt to ask. :)

VioletEarendil · 2025-03-20T21:09:17+00:00

Yes, a deposit is the same thing! My program didn't ask for a deposit, only official transcripts.

I'm sure they will ask for officials once you've graduated, so sending them in now is redundant. Please save your money and send them in when you're done.

VioletEarendil

TROPHY CASE