I don't know the answer to your question, but I just wanted to let you know that I empathize with you. I've heard multiple times on this thread, "I wouldn't worry about what others say" or "You don't have to tell anyone where you're going, it's nobody's business" when those waiting express sadness or uncertainty about what to say about where you're going to school. While well intentioned, I don't think they're helpful. The fact is, the waiting is awful. One of the rewards of working so hard all these years is to share that joy with others and have them be excited with you about where you are going. It's like a newly engaged couple showing off their engagement ring. It's (generally) not so others can admire the actual ring, it's so that others share their joy. The uncertainty takes that from you, like you're neither fully here nor fully there. You may be perfectly fine with your plan B, and even excited about it, but there's a small part of you that can't get fully invested because you're not really sure you're going there.It’s refreshing to see some movement on this list in both directions. However I must admit the wait is excruciating. Having people ask “what’s the plan?” Just to reply with my plan b is just saddening. To come so far, to put some much forward , to and know I was just a few slots away. Im not quite sure if this could be related to my predicament but before I applied an individual in my Congressional district had an LOA. Fast forward we both get noms and I’m medically qualified. However, he comes to find he wasn’t medically qualified because his vision was -8.5, so he’s pending a waiver. If he weren’t to receive the waiver would I fill his slot or would it roll to someone else on the list.
Do you buy that cool piece of dorm furniture that's on sale now? Will you need it? Do I make plans for a roommate knowing I might leave that kid in the lurch? Should you plan and pay for a trip for the end of the summer with your friends before everyone leaves for school? Should you buy a concert ticket for the show in Sept that is playing an hour away from your plan B school? Should you offer your guest room to your great-uncle who is planning to be in your town over parents' weekend, or will no one be home? Grandma and grandpa want to plan a trip to see you in the fall...where should they go? Should I get a summer job? These are many of the decisions whose answers remain unknown. Answering them would allow you to start envisioning, anticipating, and getting excited about what's ahead.
There is grief that you see a goal slipping away, but there is also grief that you can't be "all in" on the adjusted plan. That doesn't mean you're not proud of what you've done, that you're not thankful for the opportunity that you do have, or that you're worried about what others think. It is just that you're left in a constant state of limbo. I'm not sure that anyone not on the waitlist can understand it--it's not the disappointment that's the hardest; it's the uncertainty. I'm praying that all on the waitlist get some resolution soon. Best wishes to you.
Last edited: