A blog for undergraduate students interested in transferring to the University of Virginia
Monday, April 21, 2008
Breaking News: Decisions Posted Online on April 30 after 5pm
For those of you who applied online, we will post decisions after 5pm on Wednesday, April 30. Letters will go out for everyone (online and paper applicants) on May 1.
In response to a previous post, I saw that you said that "UVA will rescind the admission if things go awry." This kinda worries me because I might get a 'C' in this really hard calculus class. If indeed I do - Itll be the first 'C' I've ever gotten in college. Just how bad do things have to be before someone's admission gets rescinded?
I hate to sound so melodramatic, but I'm working hard - its just that this class is intense...
If you applied online to UVA in the Spring 08 and your application was rolled over to the Fall 08 can you still get your admission results online after 6pm on 4/30/08?
This post is in a very random spot but I figured most people would see it here. I was checking back in to the blog just for kicks, but I transferred to UVA last year, coming in as a junior. I know at this time last year I was very anxious about getting in, but I was more anxious about what if I get in where will I live. I also saw some posts about it earlier in the comments about housing. If you don’t want to live on grounds, my best advice is Facebook. I know that sounds ridiculous but I found my roommates on the Marketplace on Facebook and it worked out really well. I would really suggest living somewhere around "the corner" and 14th street. It’s a great part of town! Good luck to everyone. I hope this helps!
Harley, you will see your status by following the below link and logging in after the appropriate time on the 30th: https://applyonline.virginia.edu/Admissions/status/
Just out of curiosity. What kind of credentials do you guys have? Im getting nervous here towards the end and wanted to see how I lined up next to some people. I have a 3.82 but am worried that might be to low. good luck to everyone
Thanks! With finals coming next week, moving, work and awaiting this decision it's been a stressful couple of weeks. Thanks for this blog, and for letting us know April 30th! I can't believe its only 8 days away.
My status still says the admission committee has not received my transcripts, but I have not received any notification from U.Va. I sent my transcripts two weeks ago...Should I just wait?
Thank you for the information about the housing. I live in Ohio and am a single parent to a daughter - housing is very much at the forefront of my mind.
I wanted to know if I would be required to send an updated transcript at the end of the semester although I have already graduated from NVCC this past Fall 07? I have retaken a class during spring but I will most likely recieved the same grade as before. Will it be necessary to send a transcript showing one class which I have already completed? Thanks!
Such angst can hardly be contained in the UVA Transfer blogspace.
Oh and Hayley, if you applied online, log into applyonline.virginia.edu/Admissions and log-in using your application name and password. Then check 'Application Status'. It should show you there. I'm not sure if they changed it, but the three different statuses listed are admission 'Offered', admission 'Not Offered' or 'Waitlist'. If you applied via mail, you won't be able to find out online because you won't have an online application name and password.
PS-I saw the post about the credentials. Where GPAs once played a main role in admissions, I think (and hope) that decisions are no longer based purely on grades. There are so many different aspects to a student rather than just grades and test schores (I myself am a HORRIBLE test taker, so my SAT/ACT scores weren't as high as they should have been). That is why schools ask about extracurriculars, work experience, and volunteer work.
Also, I read an article posted by a UVA admissions officer during the application process that stated that the essay is essential to a student's admissions because it gives those who are reviewing applications a brief "taste" of who you are. I guess it makes you more of a person instead of just an application number..
I think the best example of this is the UC system. They don't even ask for transcripts until after they offer admissions. Instead, they ask multiple essay and short answer questions to "get to know you".
Anyways, just thought I'd share that just in case people who are thinking of transferring are reading this.
Hey there. I'm a nontraditional student, currently at a community college, and I've had a great academic year thus far but do to my wishy-washy history I'm not certain that I will be accepted at the turn of the month. My question is--may I appeal the University's decision if I am rejected by bringing in transcripts from this spring semester? I am pretty certain I will be getting all As, I would just like to know in advance if I have such an option and who I would direct my attention to. Thanks
GPA is one of the major factor in admissions and could pretty much decide with the SATs how well you can do at college. Sure, extra cirricular activities and a personality expressed in the essays would be great, but are these factors going to help in how well you perform at UVA? So an answer to the question is no but due to the influx in the amount of applicants, these factors are practically 'required' since there are so many competitive applicants with very similar if not exact scores. So yes, they do play some factor, but not a make-it or break-it decision because the transcript speaks for itself.
Thank you so much for all your input during this stressful time. I am so impressed with the care and attention you have given to this blog. For the past few months it has become part of my daily routine to check your blog (sometimes more than once a day) and it has made a world of difference. I'm looking forward to next Wednesday.
Thank you for everything, Sylvia A.
P.S. Best of luck to everyone. If given the opportunity to attend UVA I hope to see everyone in fall :)
Hi transfermer, As an international applicant, should I check my application result also on May.1? And do the international students have a lower chance to be admitted by UVA than the local ones? Thank you!
To 3.1415926- I'll bet international students are more likely to be accepted - having variety in universities here in the US is a top priority. :) Of course, if you're unlucky enough to be from one of those places where credentials don't transfer to the US you may be in trouble. I've met a load of international students who already have degrees in other countries who've had to go through college all over again just to get a job here in the states - and they're all smarter than me, so.... :)
GPA and SATs are very important, and I don't think you can blame being a horrible test-taker on not getting "the score you should have gotten." The fact that you are a poor test taker just demonstrates an inability to perform well under pressure and/or memorize content and apply concepts. These of course are essential qualities in college courses and in most challenging careers. I personally would be appalled if my application was being passed over for someone with a 3.0 who was in a bunch of ludicrous clubs. Yeah admissions isn't based purely on grades, but "alexander" is right, that's only because so many people applying have excellent GPAs (the avg is 3.5). A good GPA is an important part of being a well-rounded student.
I am really excited about hearing on Wednesday but I also think it's important for everyone not to get your hopes up because if you are rejected it can be particularly heart breaking and cause you to doubt yourself. I personally know what this feels like because UVA admissions has broken my heart and spirit a grand total of 3 times so far.
I have applied to UVA a total of 4 times (fall 06, fall 07, spring 08, fall 08)and so far have been served with 3 rejection letters after being wait-listed each time. When I tell people that I have been rejected from UVA 3 times they assume it's because I have bad grades or because I am stupid. The funny thing is is that I have a 4.0 and attend another distinguished Virginia University where I am an honors student and an active participant in student organizations. I made the mistake of thinking that I was a shoe-in and the consequences were devastating.
I just want to let everyone know that even if you are a great student it doesn't mean you are guaranteed admission to UVA. I've made the mistake of thinking this more than once and I have finally learned not to take it personally. Admissions to be honest are so hit or miss and make no sense really. (For example last fall when I was rejected another student I knew got in from a Community College with a GPA of 2.9 (NOT even with the guaranteed admissions agreement!))
Some people might get angry because I wrote this but honestly I didn't write it to be negative or discouraging. I wrote it because I just really don't want anyone to set themselves up for the heart break that I have endured now for the past several semesters. DON'T TAKE IT PERSONALLY IF YOU DON'T GET IN!
Best of Luck to everyone and hopefully I will finally get what I deserve.
Of course GPA and test scores play a role, I was just saying that they are not the MAIN role in admission decisions. If they were, admissions committees wouldn't waste their time reading thousands of essays when they can get an evaluation of writing skills taken on the SAT/ACT. I have over a 3.5 GPA right now, but based on your "facts" I should practically be failing. The fact that I do not do well on standardized tests does not mean I have an inability to do well under pressure, in fact, I find I do better under pressure. But that's just me. There are many other reasons why a student might not do well on standardized tests like psychological/physical disorders.
I would acutally like to see a student with a 3.0 and extracurriculars and shows academic growth get your spot. It means that schools are looking at more than just grades and scores.
High GPAs and high test scores but no other activities shows that while you do great in a classroom, you don't do so hot in a social environment, which is a major part of college life. Obviously you don't participate in "ludicrous clubs" otherwise you would know that extracurriculars make a well rounded student and show their interest in other things than just classes.
To the person who left the comment about not getting upset about being rejected:
The reason you may not be getting in is because you DO go to a distinguished VA School and are in Honors and with good grades. They don't always take people if they are already doing well and succeeding where they are. Community College is a little different because you won't recieve a bachelors in the end and most plan on transfering just like I. Admissions is very competitive and if they think you are better off where you are already doing exceedingly well so that they may give another person a chance to excel they may very well reject you every single time you apply.
P.S. I'm really not getting my hopes up, though i know i've worked hard its better to be happy that i got into GMU and survive then be totally and completely upset about rejection because i know its nothing personal many of you are probably just as qualified as i am!
Schools shouldn't accept inferior students just because they are more involved with clubs at school... lets not forget you can be social without wasting time in a lame club like students for environmental awareness, for instance.
Schools should be aiming to develop raw talent and ability, not giving a leg up to less intelligent individuals because they're willing to waste time in various clubs. The fact is that a lot of clubs don't really accomplish much, and for individuals concerned with actual achievement and personal growth, they can seem somewhat pointless (there are some clubs that are not like this, but a lot of them seem very uninteresting and simply arenas for losers excited to exercise authority over others, no matter how small that level of authority may be).
I'd rather dedicate my time to individualistic pursuits and I don't see much wrong with that. Objectively speaking, I don't think you can say that being involved makes one a better student. A lot of people who focus on the formal social aspects of college are simply ambitious individuals willing to "pay their dues" in a lame ass club so they can get the resume benefits associated with participation. Honestly, most of the clubs seem so pointless I don't understand how you could sincerely be interested in their activities.
To Sharrah: Thank you for your reply~ Are you an applicant or an admission officer of UVA? I am from Beijing, China. Is it a so-called place where credentials don't transfer to the US? Thank you:)
I think it's pretty worthless to have an argument over what makes a student better than another. You have your opinions, I have mine. We can just leave it at that.
Ok, you can have your opinion but let's not be blindly ignorant. I think it's pretty obvious what makes a student 'more qualified' than another student.
Transfermer, is it really true as Lucky #4 says that UVa will deny acceptance to "overqualified" students in favor of students performing POORLY instead of well at their current universities?
just to clarify i never said that i didnt get in because i was over qualified. the student named "dana lillard" made that suggestion
to be honest it seems highly doubtful because UVA usually selects the most qualified students who are performing well academically. UVA wants to have the best students possible attend because and I think wouldn't deny someone for being "over qualified" in favor of someone performing poorly. it makes UVA look better to have the STRONGEST students possible
Eric, There is no one way to describe how this works. We'll take it on a case by case basis. It is rare, but it does happen.
NVCC Anon, you will not have to send an additional transcript if you haven't taken classes since Fall 2007.
Gottaloveuva, Good question here. Unfortnately, the system will not let you see your new decision online. The letter will be the only way to see it.
NVCC Anonymous, if you are the same person as above, then I should correct myself. Even if you have the same grade, you need to send this transcript.
Renee,
There is no appeals process. We spend a lot of time evaluating your applications and once a decision is made, it's set.
Skier and Alexander, you both make some good points. What's most important academically speaking is your coursework and grades. But we would be nothing without curious,enthusiastic and adventurous students. That's why we ask for information about your possible extracurricular activities. That's why we ask to get a taste of who you are through your essays. Perhaps that will give you an idea of how we look at transfers.
3.14, you can check on April 30, 5pm EST. International students are considered out of state students. We are bound by the state to have a class made up of 2/3rds in-state and 1/3rd out-of-staters. All of the students are reviewed in a similar fashion, but there is less space for out-of-staters.
I think I've said this before, but there isn't an exact science to review. I can tell you that each year we receive about 2000 applications and cannot admit all of these (in most cases) highly qualified students.
Just to clarify, we don't turn down overqualified students. But, it is true that a student in their third year is not eligible for transfer to the College of Arts and Sciences. We advise them to finish where they are and look at us for graduate study. This should come as no suprise as it is noted in our literature
I was wondering if you could tell me how many people applied to the Commerce school this year.
I realize you're very busy and may not have time or access to let me know about these details, but I was just curious as I'm very nervous and excited about this whole process.
- Transfermer, Renee, We spend a lot of time evaluating your applications and once a decision is made, it's set...
Question: - As a transfer student does UVA hold the right to withdraw offers of acceptance to students whose updated transcripts do not reflect their initial one or is that just for first years???
To Clairfy my statement, I said its possible they may turn people down. I am not from admissions i don't know what they base it on i was making an observation like many other people are doing. Sorry to confuse you. And Thanks Transfermer for answering that question for me!
Dean J posted a bit of a teaser on her Admissions Blog:
"If any transfers are reading, keep an eye on the transfer blog today. There might be an exciting announcement for you!"
I am sure you are busily stuffing envelopes, licking stamps, and filling mail crates with our Transfer Decisions, but was hoping you might provide some more insight into the possible "exciting news".....if we were to hear such news, when do you think it might appear on the Transfer Blog?
I did think it was quite peculiar that they would release the decisions on Wednesday since last year and this year, for reg. undergraduate they released them on Friday but that may just be me. Hopefully, what Dean J has said will come true...hopefully.
Yikes--- Tell us more! That surprise could be anything from decision letters to another picture of Cav dog..(not that the dog isn't important.. I enjoy looking at him actually. It's just the decision is smidge bit more important) lol.. Whats happening??
No, there is not a quota for students coming from PVCC, but there is a goal for all VCCS students.
Clemson, About 300 students applied to the Commerce school. This is an increase from last year, so the competition will be tougher.
Anon, I know the comments are getting long on here, but I addressed this earlier on. It is possible for a student's offer of admission to be rescinded if one's grades drop significantly. There are no rules to what constitutes this as we take it on a case-by-case basis.
Thanks, I guess we will just have to sit quietly hitting the refresh button as we stare at the Transfer Blog with our hearts are pounding in anticipation!
If you get board between your envelope stuffing and stamp licking feel free to throw the dog (us not Cav Dog) a bone to chew on while we wait for the potentially exciting news ;)
No, I'm not from Pakistan. I am from Bangladesh. Good luck by the way!
ClemsontoUVA,
I understand exactly how you feel. I am competing against 299 other applicants for admission into the School of Commerce. I'm soooooo nervous! best of luck!!
So while patiently waiting for some potentially "exciting news" this afternoon, I noticed that if you log in to your application "status" page and right click on it and select "view source code" option, you will see a bunch of Java script associated with the status page. One item that caught my attention was a waitlist function that apparently is embedded in the source code but does not show up on the visual page. I was wondering if this meant I am about to be waitlisted....does anybody else have this same waitlist function in the source code associated witht their status page?
Thanks ClemsontoUVA. Just think of it this way, if we are accepted it was meant to be. In my past, I have seen that any set backs were truly for the best. =D
ya i have that waitlist code embedded as well....i wouldnt be surprised...if they does mean were wait listed because afterall everyone's admissions decision is probably already decided
Well I don't see similar code for "accepted" or "denied" in the Java Script for my status page....that is why I found it interesting that the waitlist function was included....
I don't think you should be worried about that code, it looks like an embedded function that can be activated by admissions. Every Status page is probably generic, so all of them have it. Just relax!! I know it's an exciting/nerve wracking time, but sitting by the computer and refreshing every minute is just going to aggravate you even more.
Have yet to "blog" since I've applied but I figure that I may as well...Seems like we should perhaps turn this into a cyber support group forum. There is more anxiety in here than you could shake a stick it...sweaty palms anyone?
Perhaps I am just a naturally curious person who found an interesting phenomena I couldn't explain and wanted to test my theory out on other similarly predisposed applicants!
Sweaty palms...I think that's an understatement. I'm wrecked with excitement and yet I am so nervous. I feel like I should be studying for finals but I can't concentrate knowing about this 'possible news' being released today. I think it's interesting that Dean J said there might be news today for transfers then Transfermer said I'll be on later. I just want this process to be over just like everyone else.
Well maybe one of us could write a small Java Script that would automatically refresh our screens to prevent us from developing a repetitive use injury!
Dean J here...those of you viewing code see the POTENTIAL for all decisions to show up for you. You are not seeing your decisions. They can not be viewed until I type come code to make them appear.
Look back at my blog and you'll see that the first-years went nuts over this a few weeks ago.
Ha well Dean J you've slowed my heart down a bit! Hope my heart doesn't explode before my decision is revealed...Feel's like we're all just sticking in purgatory...Such angst.
Carpal Tunnel is a widely accepted abbreviation for CTS. As a student at UVa and the daughter of someone afflicted with "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome", I just wanted to point out that you don't have to correct everyone just because you think they're better than you. This post may be hypocritical, but I'd just like to remind you that you aren't so hot. Good luck on getting into UVa.
Woah Anon. you really don't need to insert words into my mouth because that is not how I am displaying myself. I'm just as nervous as you are for the decisions and there is no need for such insults. I am just joking around here as the person before said their heart was going to explode. It is all in good fun, I was not intended to hurt you.
This is so funny...people are getting so catty on here! I'm not sure which is more entertaining to watch, Rock of Love II on VH1 or this. Everyone needs to take a chill pill and relax a bit.
Thanks Dean J. for being so supportive of all the transfer students. I haven't seen such support and acknowledgment from the faculty and admins of any other university I applied to.
The anticipation is building up. Only 9 more days! :)
ReplyDeleteyes!! I'm sure a lot of you are happy, ay?
ReplyDeleteWell, good luck to you all
this is wonderful! thank you very much. I believe this will be a great relief for many who have to send their deposits to other schools by May 1.
ReplyDeleteHey TABASSUM!!!!! ARE YOU FROM PAKISTAN?
ReplyDeleteThat's nice to hear...
ReplyDeleteso both UVA and Berkeley will release decisions concurrently!
Transfermer,
ReplyDeleteIn response to a previous post, I saw that you said that "UVA will rescind the admission if things go awry." This kinda worries me because I might get a 'C' in this really hard calculus class. If indeed I do - Itll be the first 'C' I've ever gotten in college. Just how bad do things have to be before someone's admission gets rescinded?
I hate to sound so melodramatic, but I'm working hard - its just that this class is intense...
I was wondering if need to send another transcript if I already graduated from NVCC and have recieved my degree? I completed it Fall 2007.
ReplyDeleteI think I might need therapy after this angst.
ReplyDeleteIf we applied online, where will the decision be posted?
ReplyDeleteTransfermer,
ReplyDeleteIf you applied online to UVA in the Spring 08 and your application was rolled over to the Fall 08 can you still get your admission results online after 6pm on 4/30/08?
Thanks! The blog has been very helpful.
SWEET! Thank you.. :) Do I hear an April 28th or an April 29th? lol..
ReplyDeleteWatch my decision be posted a week after everybody else because I made the wrong decision by being sarcastic on the transfer blog..
This post is in a very random spot but I figured most people would see it here. I was checking back in to the blog just for kicks, but I transferred to UVA last year, coming in as a junior. I know at this time last year I was very anxious about getting in, but I was more anxious about what if I get in where will I live. I also saw some posts about it earlier in the comments about housing. If you don’t want to live on grounds, my best advice is Facebook. I know that sounds ridiculous but I found my roommates on the Marketplace on Facebook and it worked out really well. I would really suggest living somewhere around "the corner" and 14th street. It’s a great part of town! Good luck to everyone. I hope this helps!
ReplyDeleteThis is great news!
ReplyDeleteHarley, you will see your status by following the below link and logging in after the appropriate time on the 30th: https://applyonline.virginia.edu/Admissions/status/
Anon, thank you for the information on finding alternative housing--it was really helpful and very much appreciated!
ReplyDeleteJust out of curiosity. What kind of credentials do you guys have? Im getting nervous here towards the end and wanted to see how I lined up next to some people. I have a 3.82 but am worried that might be to low.
ReplyDeletegood luck to everyone
I'd really prefer that you not play the game of comparing credentials. It's already a very tense time, and I feel it will make matters worse.
ReplyDeleteGood luck on final papers, early exams and finishing out the end of the semester!
Thanks! With finals coming next week, moving, work and awaiting this decision it's been a stressful couple of weeks. Thanks for this blog, and for letting us know April 30th! I can't believe its only 8 days away.
ReplyDeleteHello, Transfermer
ReplyDeleteMy status still says the admission committee has not received my transcripts, but I have not received any notification from U.Va. I sent my transcripts two weeks ago...Should I just wait?
Thank you
Kenneth,
ReplyDeletePlease email undergradadmission@virginia.edu with this inquiry.
Thank you for the information about the housing. I live in Ohio and am a single parent to a daughter - housing is very much at the forefront of my mind.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to know if I would be required to send an updated transcript at the end of the semester although I have already graduated from NVCC this past Fall 07? I have retaken a class during spring but I will most likely recieved the same grade as before. Will it be necessary to send a transcript showing one class which I have already completed? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteMan! I'm going to be at work when they are posted! I don't think i'll be getting any work done!
ReplyDelete"I think I might need therapy after this angst."
ReplyDeleteSuch angst can hardly be contained in the UVA Transfer blogspace.
Oh and Hayley, if you applied online, log into applyonline.virginia.edu/Admissions and log-in using your application name and password. Then check 'Application Status'. It should show you there. I'm not sure if they changed it, but the three different statuses listed are admission 'Offered', admission 'Not Offered' or 'Waitlist'. If you applied via mail, you won't be able to find out online because you won't have an online application name and password.
the waiting is agonizing....
ReplyDeleteI am going to have a heart attack.
I can't sleep anymore and I wish everyone the best of luck.
ReplyDeleteAHHH! UVA should be proud to know that they have answered the prayers of many applicants!
ReplyDeleteGood luck to everyone! I know I'll have my laptop in my class with me so I can check!
PS-I saw the post about the credentials. Where GPAs once played a main role in admissions, I think (and hope) that decisions are no longer based purely on grades. There are so many different aspects to a student rather than just grades and test schores (I myself am a HORRIBLE test taker, so my SAT/ACT scores weren't as high as they should have been). That is why schools ask about extracurriculars, work experience, and volunteer work.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I read an article posted by a UVA admissions officer during the application process that stated that the essay is essential to a student's admissions because it gives those who are reviewing applications a brief "taste" of who you are. I guess it makes you more of a person instead of just an application number..
I think the best example of this is the UC system. They don't even ask for transcripts until after they offer admissions. Instead, they ask multiple essay and short answer questions to "get to know you".
Anyways, just thought I'd share that just in case people who are thinking of transferring are reading this.
Hey there. I'm a nontraditional student, currently at a community college, and I've had a great academic year thus far but do to my wishy-washy history I'm not certain that I will be accepted at the turn of the month. My question is--may I appeal the University's decision if I am rejected by bringing in transcripts from this spring semester? I am pretty certain I will be getting all As, I would just like to know in advance if I have such an option and who I would direct my attention to. Thanks
ReplyDeleteTo skierWITHOUTsnow,
ReplyDeleteGPA is one of the major factor in admissions and could pretty much decide with the SATs how well you can do at college. Sure, extra cirricular activities and a personality expressed in the essays would be great, but are these factors going to help in how well you perform at UVA? So an answer to the question is no but due to the influx in the amount of applicants, these factors are practically 'required' since there are so many competitive applicants with very similar if not exact scores. So yes, they do play some factor, but not a make-it or break-it decision because the transcript speaks for itself.
Dear Transfermer,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for all your input during this stressful time.
I am so impressed with the care and attention you have given to this blog.
For the past few months it has become part of my daily routine to check your blog (sometimes more than once a day) and it has made a world of difference.
I'm looking forward to next Wednesday.
Thank you for everything,
Sylvia A.
P.S. Best of luck to everyone. If given the opportunity to attend UVA I hope to see everyone in fall :)
Hi transfermer,
ReplyDeleteAs an international applicant, should I check my application result also on May.1? And do the international students have a lower chance to be admitted by UVA than the local ones?
Thank you!
To 3.1415926- I'll bet international students are more likely to be accepted - having variety in universities here in the US is a top priority. :) Of course, if you're unlucky enough to be from one of those places where credentials don't transfer to the US you may be in trouble. I've met a load of international students who already have degrees in other countries who've had to go through college all over again just to get a job here in the states - and they're all smarter than me, so.... :)
ReplyDeleteGPA and SATs are very important, and I don't think you can blame being a horrible test-taker on not getting "the score you should have gotten." The fact that you are a poor test taker just demonstrates an inability to perform well under pressure and/or memorize content and apply concepts. These of course are essential qualities in college courses and in most challenging careers. I personally would be appalled if my application was being passed over for someone with a 3.0 who was in a bunch of ludicrous clubs. Yeah admissions isn't based purely on grades, but "alexander" is right, that's only because so many people applying have excellent GPAs (the avg is 3.5). A good GPA is an important part of being a well-rounded student.
ReplyDeleteI am really excited about hearing on Wednesday but I also think it's important for everyone not to get your hopes up because if you are rejected it can be particularly heart breaking and cause you to doubt yourself. I personally know what this feels like because UVA admissions has broken my heart and spirit a grand total of 3 times so far.
ReplyDeleteI have applied to UVA a total of 4 times (fall 06, fall 07, spring 08, fall 08)and so far have been served with 3 rejection letters after being wait-listed each time. When I tell people that I have been rejected from UVA 3 times they assume it's because I have bad grades or because I am stupid. The funny thing is is that I have a 4.0 and attend another distinguished Virginia University where I am an honors student and an active participant in student organizations. I made the mistake of thinking that I was a shoe-in and the consequences were devastating.
I just want to let everyone know that even if you are a great student it doesn't mean you are guaranteed admission to UVA. I've made the mistake of thinking this more than once and I have finally learned not to take it personally. Admissions to be honest are so hit or miss and make no sense really. (For example last fall when I was rejected another student I knew got in from a Community College with a GPA of 2.9 (NOT even with the guaranteed admissions agreement!))
Some people might get angry because I wrote this but honestly I didn't write it to be negative or discouraging. I wrote it because I just really don't want anyone to set themselves up for the heart break that I have endured now for the past several semesters. DON'T TAKE IT PERSONALLY IF YOU DON'T GET IN!
Best of Luck to everyone and hopefully I will finally get what I deserve.
To Anonymous:
ReplyDeleteOf course GPA and test scores play a role, I was just saying that they are not the MAIN role in admission decisions. If they were, admissions committees wouldn't waste their time reading thousands of essays when they can get an evaluation of writing skills taken on the SAT/ACT. I have over a 3.5 GPA right now, but based on your "facts" I should practically be failing. The fact that I do not do well on standardized tests does not mean I have an inability to do well under pressure, in fact, I find I do better under pressure. But that's just me. There are many other reasons why a student might not do well on standardized tests like psychological/physical disorders.
I would acutally like to see a student with a 3.0 and extracurriculars and shows academic growth get your spot. It means that schools are looking at more than just grades and scores.
High GPAs and high test scores but no other activities shows that while you do great in a classroom, you don't do so hot in a social environment, which is a major part of college life. Obviously you don't participate in "ludicrous clubs" otherwise you would know that extracurriculars make a well rounded student and show their interest in other things than just classes.
Lucky #4, where do you go currently?
ReplyDeleteTo the person who left the comment about not getting upset about being rejected:
ReplyDeleteThe reason you may not be getting in is because you DO go to a distinguished VA School and are in Honors and with good grades. They don't always take people if they are already doing well and succeeding where they are. Community College is a little different because you won't recieve a bachelors in the end and most plan on transfering just like I. Admissions is very competitive and if they think you are better off where you are already doing exceedingly well so that they may give another person a chance to excel they may very well reject you every single time you apply.
P.S. I'm really not getting my hopes up, though i know i've worked hard its better to be happy that i got into GMU and survive then be totally and completely upset about rejection because i know its nothing personal many of you are probably just as qualified as i am!
Skierwithoutsnow,
ReplyDeleteSchools shouldn't accept inferior students just because they are more involved with clubs at school... lets not forget you can be social without wasting time in a lame club like students for environmental awareness, for instance.
Schools should be aiming to develop raw talent and ability, not giving a leg up to less intelligent individuals because they're willing to waste time in various clubs. The fact is that a lot of clubs don't really accomplish much, and for individuals concerned with actual achievement and personal growth, they can seem somewhat pointless (there are some clubs that are not like this, but a lot of them seem very uninteresting and simply arenas for losers excited to exercise authority over others, no matter how small that level of authority may be).
I'd rather dedicate my time to individualistic pursuits and I don't see much wrong with that. Objectively speaking, I don't think you can say that being involved makes one a better student. A lot of people who focus on the formal social aspects of college are simply ambitious individuals willing to "pay their dues" in a lame ass club so they can get the resume benefits associated with participation. Honestly, most of the clubs seem so pointless I don't understand how you could sincerely be interested in their activities.
Thank you for letting us know it! Hopefully, I could get good news from U.Va.
ReplyDeleteTo Sharrah:
ReplyDeleteThank you for your reply~ Are you an applicant or an admission officer of UVA? I am from Beijing, China. Is it a so-called place where credentials don't transfer to the US? Thank you:)
To Anonymous:
ReplyDeleteI think it's pretty worthless to have an argument over what makes a student better than another. You have your opinions, I have mine. We can just leave it at that.
skierWITHOUTsnow,
ReplyDeleteOk, you can have your opinion but let's not be blindly ignorant. I think it's pretty obvious what makes a student 'more qualified' than another student.
Transfermer, is it really true as Lucky #4 says that UVa will deny acceptance to "overqualified" students in favor of students performing POORLY instead of well at their current universities?
ReplyDeletejust to clarify i never said that i didnt get in because i was over qualified. the student named "dana lillard" made that suggestion
ReplyDeleteto be honest it seems highly doubtful because UVA usually selects the most qualified students who are performing well academically. UVA wants to have the best students possible attend because and I think wouldn't deny someone for being "over qualified" in favor of someone performing poorly. it makes UVA look better to have the STRONGEST students possible
Eric, There is no one way to describe how this works. We'll take it on a case by case basis. It is rare, but it does happen.
ReplyDeleteNVCC Anon, you will not have to send an additional transcript if you haven't taken classes since Fall 2007.
Gottaloveuva, Good question here. Unfortnately, the system will not let you see your new decision online. The letter will be the only way to see it.
NVCC Anonymous, if you are the same person as above, then I should correct myself. Even if you have the same grade, you need to send this transcript.
Renee,
There is no appeals process. We spend a lot of time evaluating your applications and once a decision is made, it's set.
Skier and Alexander, you both make some good points. What's most important academically speaking is your coursework and grades. But we would be nothing without curious,enthusiastic and adventurous students. That's why we ask for information about your possible extracurricular activities. That's why we ask to get a taste of who you are through your essays. Perhaps that will give you an idea of how we look at transfers.
I applied to transfer into the nursing school. Will decisions for all transfer students be posted April 30th or will certain schools post May 1st?
ReplyDelete3.14, you can check on April 30, 5pm EST. International students are considered out of state students. We are bound by the state to have a class made up of 2/3rds in-state and 1/3rd out-of-staters. All of the students are reviewed in a similar fashion, but there is less space for out-of-staters.
ReplyDeleteI think I've said this before, but there isn't an exact science to review. I can tell you that each year we receive about 2000 applications and cannot admit all of these (in most cases) highly qualified students.
ReplyDeleteJust to clarify, we don't turn down overqualified students. But, it is true that a student in their third year is not eligible for transfer to the College of Arts and Sciences. We advise them to finish where they are and look at us for graduate study. This should come as no suprise as it is noted in our literature
All schools will be posted at the same time.
ReplyDeleteIs it true that there is a quota that UVA must meet along the lines of accepting PVCC students?
ReplyDeleteTransfermer,
ReplyDeleteI was wondering if you could tell me how many people applied to the Commerce school this year.
I realize you're very busy and may not have time or access to let me know about these details, but I was just curious as I'm very nervous and excited about this whole process.
- Transfermer,
ReplyDeleteRenee,
We spend a lot of time evaluating your applications and once a decision is made, it's set...
Question:
- As a transfer student does UVA hold the right to withdraw offers of acceptance to students whose updated transcripts do not reflect their initial one or is that just for first years???
To Clairfy my statement, I said its possible they may turn people down. I am not from admissions i don't know what they base it on i was making an observation like many other people are doing. Sorry to confuse you. And Thanks Transfermer for answering that question for me!
ReplyDeleteTransfermer,
ReplyDeleteDean J posted a bit of a teaser on her Admissions Blog:
"If any transfers are reading, keep an eye on the transfer blog today. There might be an exciting announcement for you!"
I am sure you are busily stuffing envelopes, licking stamps, and filling mail crates with our Transfer Decisions, but was hoping you might provide some more insight into the possible "exciting news".....if we were to hear such news, when do you think it might appear on the Transfer Blog?
Thanks,
Excited but Nervous Transfer Applicant!
To Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteI did think it was quite peculiar that they would release the decisions on Wednesday since last year and this year, for reg. undergraduate they released them on Friday but that may just be me. Hopefully, what Dean J has said will come true...hopefully.
surprises, Transfermer?
ReplyDeleteYikes--- Tell us more! That surprise could be anything from decision letters to another picture of Cav dog..(not that the dog isn't important.. I enjoy looking at him actually. It's just the decision is smidge bit more important) lol.. Whats happening??
Transfermer, the suspense is killing me!!!
ReplyDeleteNo, there is not a quota for students coming from PVCC, but there is a goal for all VCCS students.
ReplyDeleteClemson, About 300 students applied to the Commerce school. This is an increase from last year, so the competition will be tougher.
Anon, I know the comments are getting long on here, but I addressed this earlier on. It is possible for a student's offer of admission to be rescinded if one's grades drop significantly. There are no rules to what constitutes this as we take it on a case-by-case basis.
Nervous Anon,
I'll be back sometime later in the day.
Transfermer,
ReplyDeleteThanks, I guess we will just have to sit quietly hitting the refresh button as we stare at the Transfer Blog with our hearts are pounding in anticipation!
If you get board between your envelope stuffing and stamp licking feel free to throw the dog (us not Cav Dog) a bone to chew on while we wait for the potentially exciting news ;)
Excited but Nervous Transfer Applicant!
'I'll be back sometime later in the day.'
ReplyDelete*hint* *hint*
Thank you such much for this blog Transfermer, you've really made this process less painful and you were able to lessen my anxiety.
proud to be pakistani,
ReplyDeleteNo, I'm not from Pakistan. I am from Bangladesh. Good luck by the way!
ClemsontoUVA,
I understand exactly how you feel. I am competing against 299 other applicants for admission into the School of Commerce. I'm soooooo nervous! best of luck!!
Tabassum,
ReplyDeleteLast year it was supposedly about 37 kids accepted into Comm School of about 230 applicants, if I remember correctly, so 16%.
If UVA accepts like 50 of these 300, it will still only be about a 16.67% acceptance rate.
This is nerve-racking but hopefully it works out for the best (for both of us). Good luck to you too!
So while patiently waiting for some potentially "exciting news" this afternoon, I noticed that if you log in to your application "status" page and right click on it and select "view source code" option, you will see a bunch of Java script associated with the status page. One item that caught my attention was a waitlist function that apparently is embedded in the source code but does not show up on the visual page. I was wondering if this meant I am about to be waitlisted....does anybody else have this same waitlist function in the source code associated witht their status page?
ReplyDeleteThanks ClemsontoUVA. Just think of it this way, if we are accepted it was meant to be. In my past, I have seen that any set backs were truly for the best. =D
ReplyDeleteYes, I do. I bet it's the same for everyone.
ReplyDeleteMine has the waitlist thing too. I really hope that doesn't mean anything. I didn't think there was a waitlist for transfers.
ReplyDeleteI looked at the java script page and I have the same waitlist function enabled. Does that really mean that I am going to be waitlisted?
ReplyDeleteI seem to have the same script on my page. I sure hope I'm not waitlisted.
ReplyDelete"function validateWaitlistSelection(){
var i;
var ans;
var isChecked;
isChecked = false;"
ya i have that waitlist code embedded as well....i wouldnt be surprised...if they does mean were wait listed because afterall everyone's admissions decision is probably already decided
ReplyDeleteEveryone will have the "waitlist" function, as well as the "Accepted" and "Denied."
ReplyDeleteOne UVA employee will have to enter in the code to tell the system to pick between the 3 choices and activate it.
On another note I am dying to see what this "exciting news" is. I really hope we get to find out early or something. *Crosses fingers*
Well I don't see similar code for "accepted" or "denied" in the Java Script for my status page....that is why I found it interesting that the waitlist function was included....
ReplyDeleteI don't think you should be worried about that code, it looks like an embedded function that can be activated by admissions. Every Status page is probably generic, so all of them have it. Just relax!! I know it's an exciting/nerve wracking time, but sitting by the computer and refreshing every minute is just going to aggravate you even more.
ReplyDeletei've got the same waitlist funciton and nothing else - I think we all do!! God, this is soo nerve racking lol
ReplyDeleteHave yet to "blog" since I've applied but I figure that I may as well...Seems like we should perhaps turn this into a cyber support group forum. There is more anxiety in here than you could shake a stick it...sweaty palms anyone?
ReplyDeleteDaniel G.B.
Who said I was aggrevated?
ReplyDeletePerhaps I am just a naturally curious person who found an interesting phenomena I couldn't explain and wanted to test my theory out on other similarly predisposed applicants!
don't worry anonymous. at least you gave all of us something to do than just stare at the screen and hit refresh, haha.
ReplyDeleteSweaty palms...I think that's an understatement. I'm wrecked with excitement and yet I am so nervous. I feel like I should be studying for finals but I can't concentrate knowing about this 'possible news' being released today. I think it's interesting that Dean J said there might be news today for transfers then Transfermer said I'll be on later. I just want this process to be over just like everyone else.
ReplyDeleteWell maybe one of us could write a small Java Script that would automatically refresh our screens to prevent us from developing a repetitive use injury!
ReplyDeleteThis is just cruel.
ReplyDeleteDean J here...those of you viewing code see the POTENTIAL for all decisions to show up for you. You are not seeing your decisions. They can not be viewed until I type come code to make them appear.
ReplyDeleteLook back at my blog and you'll see that the first-years went nuts over this a few weeks ago.
they'll probably post them today by 5 if they do today. only one more hour of constant refreshing. i'm gonna get carpal tunnel.
ReplyDeleteHa well Dean J you've slowed my heart down a bit! Hope my heart doesn't explode before my decision is revealed...Feel's like we're all just sticking in purgatory...Such angst.
ReplyDeleteDGB
Don't bother hammering the website. It's not going to "slip" and magically get code without my typing it.
ReplyDeleteCarpal Tunnel Syndrome*
ReplyDeleteAnd don't worry anon. your heart won't 'explode' but the worst that could happen is an aortic aneurysm or a heart attack but I doubt that will happen.
This is an amazing resource. Thanks for all the updates. Looking forward to the that final post.
ReplyDeleteGod be with you all,
JLH
hahaha
ReplyDeleteok, you guys are hilarious. Now I feel better. Time to study. You guys should back away from the computer as well! Just come back in a few hours. = P
Alexander,
ReplyDeleteCarpal Tunnel is a widely accepted abbreviation for CTS. As a student at UVa and the daughter of someone afflicted with "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome", I just wanted to point out that you don't have to correct everyone just because you think they're better than you. This post may be hypocritical, but I'd just like to remind you that you aren't so hot. Good luck on getting into UVa.
pwned.
ReplyDeleteWoah Anon. you really don't need to insert words into my mouth because that is not how I am displaying myself. I'm just as nervous as you are for the decisions and there is no need for such insults. I am just joking around here as the person before said their heart was going to explode. It is all in good fun, I was not intended to hurt you.
ReplyDeleteAnd FYI, my brother has CTS and that's what we called it. Maybe it's just a regional thing or something.
ReplyDeleteThis is so funny...people are getting so catty on here! I'm not sure which is more entertaining to watch, Rock of Love II on VH1 or this. Everyone needs to take a chill pill and relax a bit.
ReplyDeleteHOLY FUDGEEEEEE!!! THE DECISIONS FOR MOST OF US ARE UP...go check AT 5pm
ReplyDeleteI thought you all were talking about the bus system, Charlottesville Transit Service. Silly me!
ReplyDeletehaha
ReplyDeleteThanks Dean J. for being so supportive of all the transfer students. I haven't seen such support and acknowledgment from the faculty and admins of any other university I applied to.