In the realm of college admissions, there are multiple variables that receive significant attention and emphasis. However, one element that is very often underestimated and overlooked is Demonstrated Interest.
Demonstrating interest in a prospective institution is a very important factor in securing a spot in the incoming class. It is a factor that universities measure to determine the level of interest and eagerness you have in their school.
According to a 2017 report from the National Association for College Admission Counseling, 13.7% of colleges said that demonstrated interest was a considerably important factor in their freshman admissions decisions. 25.5% said that it was of moderate importance, with 28.8% saying it had no importance at all in their decisions.
Demonstrated interest can play an important role in college admissions decisions, particularly at selective colleges and universities. These institutions receive a large number of highly qualified applications each year, and demonstrated interest can be a way for them to determine which of these applicants are most likely to enroll if admitted.
"The creative side of this began to really show with the kind of programming and the kind of engagement that we were able to do in a much more, I think, interesting way than just going out there and giving the dog and pony show if you will about what college is like."
- Mike Steidel
Dean of Admission, Carnegie Mellon University
Here are some ways you, as students, can demonstrate interest:
Campus Visit: A visit to the university's campus is one of the most powerful ways to demonstrate interest. Attending tours, sitting in on classes, and engaging with students helps you gain firsthand experience like no other.
Attending Informational Sessions and Webinars: Most universities host a lot of informational sessions and webinars, whether on-campus or online. Attending these sessions can showcase interest and also allow you to gather important information.
Emailing the Admissions Officers: Sometimes sending a personalized email to admissions officers with thoughtful questions or expressing your interest and enthusiasm for their institution can also help you leave a positive impression and demonstrate interest.
Using your Essays: Essays make a great space for you to talk about why you want to enroll in a specific university. Tailoring your essay to highlight specific aspects of the college that resonate with your goals can demonstrate a strong interest.
Interview: If the college offers you an interview, make the most of this opportunity to engage with the interviewers - alumni of the university or the admissions officers themselves. Make sure you prepare educated, thoughtful questions to ask and share your passion for the college and major you're applying for.
Applying Early: Applying during the Early Decision or Early Action rounds indicates a strong commitment to the college. It demonstrates your eagerness and interest in becoming a part of their community.
Interacting on Social Media: You can follow the college's social media accounts, engage in discussions, and share their posts and content to hint at an ongoing interest and active participation in the college's community.
Opening and Reading their E-Mails: Being responsive to communications from the college, such as opening and reading their emails promptly, shows that you are actively staying informed about updates and opportunities related to the college or university.
Remember that demonstrated interest is not just another buzzword in the components of college admissions; it's a genuine way for colleges to assess your enthusiasm for their institution. The evolution of campus engagement is not just limited to enrolment; it extends way beyond that. It is now a two-way street where you can explore, engage, and demonstrate interest and also allow the admissions officers to know you up close and beyond the application you submitted.
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