Just submitted my applications to sociology PhD programs and now I'm spiraling lol. I don't have any publications yet. I have a strong MA thesis and good letters, but I see other applicants on forums listing 1 2 peer reviewed papers before even starting their PhD. Is this becoming the norm?? Do admissions committees actually expect publications from master's students now? Also does the type of publication matter? I could potentially submit my MA thesis to a lower tier journal and maybe get it accepted, but idk if thats worth it.