I'd recommend keeping an eye on that thread. With the number of submissions coming in, we whitelisters are handling them almost constantly. The other whitelister, zePato, has rejected your first application. Note that you can just keep reapplying. Main tips: We don't have Half-elves, at least not yet. We try to stay away from "They killed my parents!" backstories - they're a bit cliche. Give it another swing, and you ought to be accepted.
Ah, alright. Then yes, I'd be game for such a collaboration later on.
Ah, that's a shame! I hope your trip goes well.
Welcome aboard!