Stamps, anyone?

As I've heard back from schools, I find it interesting to compare the acceptance letters, particularly how they choose to treat the economic aspect of graduate school; always a concern, but especially so now. American and NYU sent huge packets of material, with annual reviews, course lists, syllabi, and invitations to visit. American made no mention of finances, except for the usual aid letter. NYU turned its actual acceptance letter into a three page missive that said, "We can't give you funding, but please come anyway! Other places will help you! Promise! Read about them!" and then sent another packet two days later with more the same information in greater detail. It was just short of writing, "We know the economy sucks, and there's almost no way you'll come to a notoriously expensive city with no help, BUT WE NEED STUDENTS! We'll let you in and show you how to get money from other departments! It'll add to your education!"

As for Georgetown? They notified me the same way they did when I applied for undergrad. A thin envelope with two pieces of paper: an acceptance letter and a form to send back with my decision (and check). And no return envelope. They don't like to be too "enthusiastic," preferring to keep us guessing if they really want us or not, just like those women who swear by The Rules.