*nods* The suburban sprawl was on the edge of the campus grounds. But those grounds themselves are very extensive and the campus buildings are set quite far back from the entrances.

Luck is not often a factor in such things, I agree - except perhaps a person who is supportive/against) getting sick and not being able to sit on the selection committee. Whether my talents - and commitment - is recognised however is certainly, as you say, something I have to show.