College Applicants: Show Interest, Get Admitted

Posted on Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Category: Applying to College, Choosing a College

College applicants are getting some new and simple advice to increase their chances of admission: Show interest.

Admissions officers favor students who demonstrate enthusiasm about their prospective college, according to a recent article in the Boston Globe.

In fact, the National Association for College Admissions Counseling reports that 22% of colleges consider interest of “considerable importance” when evaluating applicants; another 30% considers it “moderately important.” Only your class rank and personal essay are scrutinized more closely.

So, why the sudden interest in interest?

The more curious a student is, the more committed she is likely to be. This means she will not only accept a college admission offer, but will be active in student groups and organizations on campus. In the long term, interest also promotes loyal alumni who reward their alma mater with financial contributions.

How College Applicants Can Show Interest in a School

The best way to demonstrate interest? Establish personal contact.

Schedule a campus visit, and be sure to ask questions. After all, this is an opportunity to introduce yourself to the college. Speak with admissions officers, either in person or via email. Attend college fairs or receptions in your hometown. Whatever your method, a personal touch is crucial.

If you can’t arrange a campus visit, don’t despair – you can still make a favorable impression. Email an admissions officer with questions and concerns, follow up on recruiting messages you receive in the mail, or pursue online chats with current students and alumni. Your connection to college is literally a mouse-click away.

And remember: admissions officers sometimes review applicants’ Facebook and other online profiles. Make sure yours is appropriate and captures positive qualities.

Such as enthusiasm!

Bookmark this Page