Over my spring break, I visited the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and was unimpressed by what I saw. The campus was falling apart, the people I spoke to were snobby and unhelpful. You would think that, since they did let me in, I would be worthy to talk to, yet they each acted as though I were wasting their time. I also discovered that the wonderful English major community that had been described is an illusion. Bleh. Not to mention they add an additional $12,000 for out of state fees. They estimate aprox. $60,000 to get my masters from them.
Upon my return from break, I learned that many of my classmates have received e-mails from the University of Arkansas informing them that they are accepted into the program. I checked my email, and there were no messages from UofA along those or any other lines.
Naturally, I freak out. What if something went wrong with my application? What if it is incomplete? What if I've been rejected? It seems unlikely that I was rejected as UTK's program is much more competitive and I was accepted into it. However, an incomplete application will keep me out just as sure as a rejection. Knowing this, I emailed the director of graduate studies at UofA, asking him if my application was incomplete. Three days have passed, and I have yet to receive a response. I have also attempted to email the other address given to potential students who have questions about the application process. I have had no response from that either. Rather than wait longer, I called, asking for information. The director was not in, but someone that I assume to be a student volunteered to leave a message for me. I agreed, and left my message complete with name, number, topic I wish to discuss, and the fact that I have already attempted an email.
This was at 8am. It is now 3pm and I have not received a phone call or an email. The director had no classes today (the student told me so). While I realize that I am not a top priority for him, I would think that I would receive some form of communication by now. Other universities have been quick to respond to inquiries, and I find it disconcerting that UofA does not. I've known their communication skills have been lacking for years, but this seems excessive.
So now, I am unimpressed by both schools. At this point, I have contemplated joining the circus or the Peace Corps. I really hate having my life up in the air like this. I'm the kind of girl who plans things -- at least major things. Weekend getaways can be spontaneous, but I'd like to know where I'm moving after I graduate.