Theory of Inflated Expectations*

When you start out on the application process, you are quite motivated but realistic at the same time. You acknowledge the vagaries of the process, the uncertainty of get admitted etc.

Then, you start on your essays and realize you have nothing to write about. You never saved the world, nor did your boss heap you with three promotions in two years. Reality is further reinforced.

You struggle for weeks and finally you have something that has a slight semblance of a convincing story. Finally, you kinda figure out the game. Now you are on a flow. Applying is no more as painful and you quickly end up sending applications to 3-4 schools. You are moderately hopeful and and develop a little confidence in yourself. Still, you are firmly grounded in reality. You acknowledge the possibility of rough jolts ahead and are mentally prepared for the worst. You start forming backup plans in your mind to ease the blow should the worst happen.

Then you get invited for an interview. Immediately, reality is thrown out the window. You feel special although a good 60% of the applicants received the same. This invite is like the first mini-success in the whole 3/4 months application period and as a result you ascribe more significance than you rationally should. Your friends are in awe. "Friends" you haven't spoken to in years call unannounced! People start asking for advice, application strategies, websites/books to refer etc. Parents are happy. You are THE STAR.

An 'inflated expectation' of you to deliver has set in - both from yourself and from others.

Now, you want that 'bschool admit' real bad. A failure from this point on will happen in a very wide public view. A lot of people are now aware that you've made some strides. You've climbed a little too high that 'the fall' is gonna hurt. And real bad at that.

* - This theory is applicable only in certain social circles.