Murphy, who was in another faculty recruitment and retention group, said the discussion was amazing.

"We had a terrific discussion," Murphy said. "It was a free, open, lively exchange."

Linda Prieto said the faculty and students in her group were in consensus that the GRE standardized tests should not be a part of the application process.

They discussed research showing that test scores are entirely race- and class-related and have little ability to predict future success in graduate school.

This contention stems from a list of demands students rallying for diversity sent to Murphy on April 25. When the dean responded on May 6, he said the GRE would stay on the school's admissions application.

Yesterday's meeting was the result of a diversity rally held at the GSE earlier this month and the lengthy correspondence between the dean and students that has since followed.

Students, many of whom are in one-year masters' programs, have been pushing for a dialogue with faculty and staff to discuss their concerns before commencement.

"It's important to leave this place knowing concrete things are in place," Linda Prieto said. "We'll see what happens."

Still, with the year almost coming to an end, some students said they are dubious of whether they will see any further progress before they leave.

"It was not clear what the next step would be and what the faculty commitment was," Elvira Prieto said. "Other students shared that feeling.