Advice for future applicants.
Don't give up. I know that may sound weird since this was my first time applying, but don't give up. It doesn't matter if it's your first time applying or your fourth time - just keep trying. This was my first try at the DCP and I actually gave up many time during my pending process. I gave up again almost every day from the halfway point on. The process was making me miserable, but I never *really* gave up. I always held on to a glimmer of hope that it could happen.
BUT. I do warn that you shouldn't throw everything aside for the Program either. Be prepared to spend another semester at school.