I totally agree with the below post. It is all about being an excellent fit: whether any prof. in the department would like to work with you or not, whether they can relate to your research interests and plans...At least in my case it was so. I asked them.

Reposting mine for poster below. Focus on heritage preservation. Involved with several non-profits in heritage protection, work at a museum, years of excavation experience, lived in 5 countries for relevant research, 3 languages (learning 2 more), GREAT recs… still rejected. Had been in contact and had phone calls with POI. :( Hope this helps. It is all about "fit."

Curatorial Track. Tuition waiver with 21.5k stipend

Received the letter in the mail.

I just decided to check the website and it says I was accepted. Info packet to come soon in the mail.

Shocked. I was in contact with my POI. (my grad gpa) CAN EVERYONE PLEASE START ACTUALLY PUTTING THEIR STATS WHEN THEY SUBMIT....OTHERWISE WHAT IS THE POINT OF THIS FORUM....

Curatorial concentration. Tuition, assistantship, 22k stipend.

Included merit scholarship (tuition + stipend)

generic rejection

Somewhat unexpected.

Received e-mail with link to check application page. Generic rejection #4.

worst birthday present

Email with link to decision letter. Its okay, I've been accepted to another amazing school with full ride and fellowship. Good luck everyone!

It was my top choice :(

:( This life is not an easy one. Can't wait for decisions to just end!!!!!