I had to probe my POI for an answer. I think there should be better notification in place.

Ouch. This was my dream school. When to the interview day, fell in love with the faculty and area. Fortunately, I've been offered assistantships at two other schools for higher amounts, so now I don't have to chose preference over money. Everything happens for a reason!

GPA is MA. 0a/2w/0r out of 18.

Was invited to and attended the MCSB Recruitment Event on Feb. 6-7.

I was invited in mid January to the MCSB recruitment event. I attended the even February 6 and 7.

I received a phone call from the graduate coordinator, which was followed up with an email. Will receive more details about funding and an official letter soon. Other info: I was invited to their recruitment event about a month ago and was in contact with a few professors, prior to the recruitment event.

Call from department chair. Will be attending.

Best Valentine gift ever. This was my first choice program.

Interviewed on February 3. Email with funding offer (TA or RA) guaranteed funding for 6 years, minimum 20k stipend + health insurance.

Hooray! After I saw all of the other acceptances I thought that maybe I had said something terribly wrong in my interview and they decided to reject me after all. UCI offered a five year dean's fellowship (I don't know if it is their standard funding package or not. The letter called it "prestigious," but that might be what they all say.)

Email from admin. POI emailed soon too. Thrilled! 5+2 pattern.

First offer!