Just sharing my experiences.

Hi.

I got in my 1st choice ph.d. program for 2024 fall admission.

However, I failed to get in ph.d. program for 2022 fall admission, and had lots of downfalls as a applicant.

I am sharing this because during the application process, I was really really stressed out.

I don't know who needs to hear my story, but hope at least one person find it helpful.

1. My undergrad GPA 3.0/4.0

I was not into academic at that point, and I am from really problematic household. need lots of pychiatric treatment and counseling. planning future was not an option for me.

after few years, I found myself want to be an acedemic.

2) Masters'

I found that I had ADHD. Tried meds, but had side effects. (currently I am not on meds).

I tried to publish my article, but I met very toxic advisor who refused to give me rec letter, always dumping their emotional struggles to me, told me lots of toxic remarks to me . I dont want to talk back them, but it really stressed me out.

3) Working history

I worked in a related field.

4) My SOP

However I have very clear vision oh which research I want to conduct, which issues that I want to improve in the fields. I know I have lots of downfalls (Undergrad gpa, no rec letter from advisor in master's), I try to prove that I am deserved to be there.

I made writing sample, code portfolio, very nice SOP.

Although writing samples are not required to some programs, I just uploaded as a addtional materials because I have to prove myself. I organized my code and poster presentation and also uploaded.

hope this help.