feels like 0 degrees

That's because the weather man says so.  It's been cold, but I wouldn't know, because I've been studying!  Had a couple of finals already.  They were okay.  If I do well on them, I'll be real proud, because they were tough as hell!  Especially Accounting.  But that's to be expected at Chicago, I suppose.

This time last year was much the same for me -- in terms of time pressure --  I was applying to b-schools.  (I didn't have the excuse of Chicago cold to keep me inside, but inside I was, most of the time.)  So for those of you who're applying in the 2nd-round, here are some words of advice:

1. Rank-order your schools (in terms of YOUR preference) and work through them one at a time.
2. Work on your essays. Structure 'em.  Write first, edit later.  Simple language will do just fine.  Ask "So what?" after each paragraph.
3. Don't under-estimate the online app.  It takes a while.  You'll have to write out cogent paragraphs for your "responsibilities" at work.  You'll have to think about what you're going to write for your extra-curriculars.
4. Send reminders to your recommenders, because it's quite likely they haven't done anything yet.
5. Spend time on your resume.  (Think of it like two essays.)
6. Work your ass off for a couple of weeks.  Take time-off from work if you have to.  Next year will bring plenty of free time to rejoice and frolick and all that.