I submitted right before the deadline. Got interview invitation just before Christmas and interviewed after new year's holiday.
True, it is interesting that my parents answered the phone, as I switched off my cell phone last night, Kim could only try the phone number for my home. This indicates parents should also know some English.
If you're admitted, Cornell will try to call you first (the calls started Jan 28 and throughout the weekend & Monday, Jan31). If they cannot reach you, they'll either shoot you a congrat email/leave a voice message, or you can check on-line. I believe decisions have been entered into their system so you can view on-line.
I choose the almni interview. In fact, Johnson school invited to an on-campus interview first. I just called to tell them that it is unlikely for me to fly to the States around that time (due to my workload), and the admission officer send me two alumni contacts (I think one is in BJ and one is in SH). Hope that helps.