[swanqween]

My experience:

Reality: I am applying to graduate programs; one of the professors at one of the programs emailed me (last week) asking if I could drive out to the campus (again) *before Christmas* to discuss doing the research for a grant proposal due in March.

My thoughts on reading the email: (1) no way am I doing your research for you before I'm enrolled in your program! (2) Not about to drive out at a moments notice during my holiday break for a meeting that most likely (based on experience from the previously mentioned meetings) the details can be conveyed via email or over the phone saving me at least 1/2 tank of gas and minimum 2 hours of drive time!!!

My emailed response: 'Unfortunately due to (insert recent event providing escape) my research schedule has been pushed back and my thesis research will continue into next term prohibiting me from taking on additional research projects until the completion of my Master's degree next semester' (hoping this will stop further attempts for me to 'meet' prior to enrollment, as I do not have vast amounts of spare time or gas $)
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My dream: While spending time w/ family (oddly, not in any home/location that exists in reality) I receive a call on my cell from another professor in the same Dept. as the one mentioned from the email. This Prof. says Prof. #1's wants me to work on his research for him. I don't recall what my 'dream-time' response was but I remember in the dream ending the call and thinking 'Wow, I *REALLY* don't want to go there, I hope I get into ANY of the other programs I've applied to.

When I woke up I realized that pretty much summed up my feelings; I hope I get into ANY of the other programs I've applied to (for a few different reasons!)!!!