Just found this board! We are applying to BS for our DC; all New England boarding schools many mentioned on this board. (Purposely don’t want to get into too much detail.) Recently, we received a call from the AO at one of the schools (DC’s first choice – which he indicated to them during interview. DC informed us that DC had done so when we left.) The AO said they were seeking additional information surrounding DC’s EC and grades (DC is a B/B- student, scored 94% on SSAT.) Call was very pleasant and as with any good AO – did not give anything away as to which way leaning. Interviews at all schools went very well (at least so it seemed). Not sure what to make of the call. Any thoughts? Is it common to get such a call?
He made the first cut but he appears to be on the bubble and you need to make the case why the grades do not match the SSAT scores. I would try to highlight the difficulty of the courses, any extra courses/ enrichment events he may have gone to over the summer or after school. If he helped support the family, I would add that.
It is not common to get such a call. It could be a good sign. The AO may be trying to gauge your current level of interest in the school, especially if your child needs FA. Most schools do not have unlimited funds for FA; thus, they have to weigh its use carefully.
Thanks @6teenSearch. DC is a classic late bloomer…which I get may not be great for BS, but DC grades since beginning of year are all As and a B; since 6th grade DC has been more of a B/B- student.
Sounds to me like the AO likes your child, but needs to convince the rest of the admissions decision makers. Your child is in the maybe pile right now.
If you haven’t already, point out the upward trajectory in your child’s grades and point out how your child has matured in terms of applying his/her effort to their schoolwork.
Looks like your child’s fate will be decided at committee. I agree with previous posters - you need to explain the grades.
The school wants to see that he can handle the work at BS. Do you have anything else to convince them? Summer courses? CTY classes? Anything that shows he can do the work.
If I read the post correctly, the call already took place. If the parent feels they may have forgotten something or not pled their case as eloquently as they might, I think the should feel free to follow up with an email. Just a thought.