Thanks Shani for your nice, encouraging words. I agree entirely with your answer to BHC. You are right: do not compromise! I think that achievers are successful because of their passion, drive and commitment. I doubt that you can reach anything if you work only for the money aspect. You will be successful, because I can sense your passion for what you are doing. I feel that the rejection you have got now will strengthen your determination, and this is exactly how it should be. Your thoughts are empowering!

It has just come to me that if your second yr invovles fieldwork, you just pay a continuation registration fee circa 1,900 quid. It is true with SOAS. Check this out with LSE if it holds as well.

thanks all, you have been great! very useful suggestions and kind words. right now, i feel like i can do anything if i just want it badly enough