<p>what exactly does that mean? I'm seeking a Master's in Biology (PhD later), and have been talking to two professors extensively at a large state school (AAU member) and a well known private school. Both have spoken with me over the phone about their labs, have asked for rec's to be sent to them personally, and know the faculty at my undergraduate institution well. They've agreed to advise me if admitted.</p>
<p>Do professors typically do this with more students than they have spots for? or should I guess that I have an extremely good chance of admission?</p>
<p>Just sort of confused...</p>
<p>My boyfriend did something similar at MIT and UVictoria. The UVic prof backed him on a fellowship proposal and made it clear that she’d make sure he’d get in (not that there was a real question of that, though). The MIT prof said she’d very much like to work with him and would put in a good word, but clearly said that multiple students had approached her and she didn’t feel comfortable saying she’d only take him or backing him exclusively.
From those experiences, I feel like if a (science) prof says they want to work with you and doesn’t give any stipulations, you can start feeling pretty confident about acceptance. Good luck!</p>
<p>It’s a very good sign! Not a guarantee by any means, because a lot can happen… but nothing bad can come of building an early relationship with a professor.</p>
<p>I second Polarscribe.</p>
<p>Different programs work differently, of course, but in many, a student won’t be admitted unless a specific faculty member wants to work with or fund him. The professors you spoke with may have only you on their list – or they may have several.</p>