Early Bird Applications; Early Bird Acceptances

Students who work with me know I am an advocate of submitting applications a month (sometimes more!) before deadlines. I'd name ALL of the reasons why this is a good idea, but that would take awhile, so I'll simply offer you my favorite: is there anything better than getting a surprise acceptance in early October, when your friends are still slaving away over their essays?

Nope....almost nothing! Congratulations!