Applying to college is over-whelming. From filling out common applications to sending transcripts every direction, it never seems to end. When all the applications are sent out and the weight is off your shoulders, you feel like the schools should be sending you thank you letters (and acceptance letters, too) just for taking the effort to apply.
However, new studies show that writing thank you notes to the admissions office can make a difference when they make their final decision on your application.
Many admissions officers appreciate a note of gratitude. The note can be simple and thank the admissions officers for their time and assistance.
The notes can include any additional facts that you may find relevant but forgot to mention in your application or admissions interview. The note should give another reason as to why you think the college or university is a good match for you.
An ideal thank you letter should be short and to the point. A few sentences will show your gratitude and keep the letter sweet. It is important to check all spelling and grammar. Also, make sure all names are spelled correctly. Pay attention to the little details. The content of the note should include when you met and a tidbit from the meeting. Remain professional throughout the note; this includes the opening and the closing. The letter should begin with “Dear” and then the name of the admissions officer. “Sincerely” followed by your name is an ideal way to close the letter.
A note of thanks can help or harm you from getting accepted. If you are extremely adamant on getting accepted to the college, take a tip from the following examples.
A prospective student at Lehigh University used M & M’s to stand out. While the candies matched the university’s colors of brown and white, the prospective student’s name was inscribed on the candy. She added a note to the candy that stated: “Keep me on the tip of your tongue when reviewing applications.”
In the admissions office of Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York, a picture of a student posing with two thumbs- up and in a Skidmore College sweatshirt is framed and on the wall. The picture was sent in a thank you letter to an admissions officer after an interview. After receiving the photograph, the student was accepted into the college.
However, not every thank you note is a success story.
A Duke University admissions officer had to reject a prospective student after their thank you letter began with: “To the most intellectual admissions officer I know.” The admissions officer did not believe the first sentence and did not allow the individual into the university.
Another perspective student at Lehigh University took a different spin on the thank you note. As the student begged to be rejected, he stated “My parents don’t know I’m sending this letter.”
Thank you notes do not guarantee admission into any university or college. However, they do show appreciation and gratitude for the admissions officers who are taking the time to decide if you are accepted.
For more information on getting the most out of the college experience and for guidance on all things college- related, visit www.college-connecting.com.
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