Mid-March

is supposedly when I'll find out about Wash U for sure one way or the other.

I finally broke down and called Arts and Sciences graduate admissions to ask if I could have a general idea of when applicants are notified of whether they are accepted. And mid-March was the answer. So, at least I can rest a little easier and have a ballpark idea of when I could expect to possibly hear something.

My supervisors are apparently convinced that I'm going to get in, though, because they are actively searching for my replacement. The headmaster assured me, though, that their preference is definitely to have me stay, and that no offers would be made to anyone until I know for sure about the status of my application. So, in other words, "We wanna keep you, but since you're probably going to bounce, don't feel like your position is in jeopardy while we're checking out other people." Fair enough. Actually, it's very gracious. I've been blessed to work at a great place with very supportive people.

I, however, just can't bring myself to feel so confident that all will work out the way I want it to. I can't be so presumptuous as to think that I have this in the bag. And even when/if I do get that acceptance letter, there's still the issue of whether I'm granted this particular fellowship that would pay for everything and more. One thing is for sure, though, (and this wasn't always my resolve) even if super full-ride fellowship doesn't work out, I'm still going. There are other financial options within the department (teaching assistantships, etc.), and if it came down to it, I wouldn't be the first one to work her way through school, or rely on student loans.

So, still I wait, but at least with a general idea of when the answer will come.