Dak601

I wish I could provide more insight =D. As Brazilian mentioned, writing samples are rarely required (I believe one of 15 of my applications required one). For the one I did submit, I thought my sample was rather weak (unplanned time/work conflict!). I did interview at that school; no reference was made whatsoever to the writing sample. Maybe someone on the application review side can provide more insight.

I'm not certain of the stipend at NW , but the cost of living in the area isn't so bad compared to NY, LA, Miami, etc. there are a number of relatively reasonable areas. It can be tight, but potentially doable. It does not, of course, compare to something like UIUC and similar Midwest cities, which would be significantly cheaper.

Just started, and still excited. That said, I think I'm in a bit of the opposite position in that I did waaayyyy too much over the summer and need a biit of a breather. Probably not a good way to start off, but getting a chance to refresh now :) 14 hours from the get-go sounds rough. I'm sure I will be pulling some long days, but the ability to dahs home and break up the day is much appreciated.

Hi all! Good to see you again! *waves* Thanks for the post and the terrific information provided. All of the information here is fantastic and the points raised are absolutely areas new applicants should consider and/or seek to improve. That said, for those that are considering applying, but don't "check every box", don't get discouraged. I know this was mentioned with respect to GMAT scores, but I would apply that to other areas as well. I suspect that several of us that were successful applicants met a number of the aforementioned qualifications, but perhaps not all. Look at your background and qualifications critically, but don't discount our chances of you are lacking in one area- assess how you may improve it and address to the best of your ability but don't forgo applying altogether if you don't meet all of the ideals. I only say this because I almost didn't apply, but a colleague encouraged me to do so, and fortunately it worked out well. As mentioned in several comments (and as a mentor told me a year ago), you may not get into your "dream" school, but the school you do attend may be the "right" one for you. I can only speak to my personal experience, but I found that to be true (and couldn't be happier with the school I ended up attending).

I agree with yas and xan- I had a similar scenario and included a one liner providing a brief explanation and turned tha t to explain how the experience made me more likely to succeed now. I think one school mentioned it very briefly on interview, but for the most part, no one focused on it. I would also disclose it, with the caveat to closely read what the application asks for. MOST require submission of ALL transcripts and their policies state that inaccurate or omitted data can lead to withdrawals of offers as appropriate. In some cases, the application only requests transcripts from the degree from which you graduated. Submit what is requested, be transparent, and have faith. I was heartened, and somewhat surprised, at the depth of thought and consideration my application received (when I felt I had a somewhat weak application for a similar reason).

I'm exceptionally late in responding, but I love this post. Thank you for posting! And same for Xan's post.

That is fantastic news - I'm so glad to hear it! Congratulations!!!!

Hey nice blog. I didn't see that before

Thanks :)

Random question, for those that have accepted already- did you guys get a lot of congrats or other communications from the current students/ faculty, or has it been relatively quiet? Just curious- the former certainly helps prevent "buyers remorse".

just signed acceptance letter. Feels amazing (and so stress free, at this point!)

Two weeks for me, but that was consistent with the timeline in the department offer letter. The forum posts seem to infer the range varies wildly, though.

Fantastic- congrats!! I can't wait until I can say the same.

I will also be pre-studying. Good times - Online study group time! =D