College Admission Directors Are People Too
I'm never a big fan of interviews with college admissions staff. No matter who is doing the interviewing, the whole subject ends up being a rehash of every other interview ever given and nobody learns anything new about the staff member or the process. Earlier this month, Ted O'Neill, dean of admissions at University of Chicago, gave an interview to the Chicago Tribune that was really typical...except for one fascinating part:
Q: What's your favorite part of the process?
A: More than a few
parts are very pleasing. I like the ritual of sitting and signing 3,400
admit letters, and appending notes going to the students I have come to
know. That brings me pleasure, and I know the letters bring them joy.
Wow. The admissions dean for a major American University writes notes to the students he knows? He actually takes the time to say "Thanks for applying, but it's not going to work out" or "I can't wait to see you in the fall"?
Of course he does!
Students and parents constantly forget that the admissions officers at the colleges they are applying to are real people. They have feelings, desires, and motives all their own. Most of them like their jobs and most of them genuinuely want to see every student succeed.
And because of that desire, reaching out to them is an extremely successful way to improve your application. They love to hear from students who are excited about their university and eventually grow to like applicants who are successful at networking and expressing their desire. When it comes time to make admissions decisions, that emotional reaction can definitely influence their choices...
So call the school. Let them know you are serious. Visit and ask to talk to the admissions staff. Make an appointment to have an interview if possible. Just make sure they know who you are and that you really, really want to attend. Be genuine!
It's your job as the applicant to get the school to like, know, and trust you. You can do that by acing your standardized tests, working toward a solid GPA, and filling your application with professional and interesting information. But nothing will convince them that you are serious about their school until they get to know you and recognize your genuine desire to attend their institution.
If you're smart about it, maybe you can get a note from Dean Ted too letting you know that he's excited to see you at the U of Chicago next semester. If you convince him that U of Chicago is your top priority, it will significantly help your chances.
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What have you done to let schools know you are serious? Ever stalked an admissions director? Worried that they will file a restraining order if you call them? Let us know in the comments!