<p>I contacted all the professors with whom I was interested in working before I applied. </p>
<p>Typically, the response was: “Yes, we I will be taking more graduate students next year. I wish you luck in the application process”.</p>
<p>That’s basically all you can do. </p>
<p>Also, you’ll feel guilty when you start turning down programs after establishing relationships with PIs.</p>