<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>So as you know, the last wave of decisions came out recently. I had UR in my top three choices, along with Brandeis and UCSD, because I honestly didn't think it would be a problem at all getting in. I had ~3.8 GPA, 2270 SAT, great ECs, decent essay, and impressive recs. So you could imagine my disappointment when I received not the big envelope, but a small one. More precise, one enclosing a letter notifying me that I had been put on the alternate list. </p>
<p>So getting to the point, I wanted to send them a letter and hopefully changing their mind. How should I go about writing this letter? Should I update my status? Or explain my interest? Or maybe a combination of both...? Also, should I enclose the letter with my Alternate List form, or send it separately? Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>You can’t change the admission office mind about accepting you–that ship has sailed; however, if you want to remain on the waitlist that’s certainly your prerogative.</p>
<p>I’d include a letter with your form reiterating your interest in UR and telling why it’s your absolute top choice (not just in your top 3). </p>
<p>You should know that in the past 5-6 years UR has taken very few if any students from the alternate list. And that UR is need aware when making offers to waitlisted students.</p>
<p>I was also unfortunately put on the alternate list for UR. It being my #1 school, I’m hoping to make the impression that I would like nothing more than to attend the school. My plan was to be brief about my interest in the school in the Comments section of the Alternate List Reply Form. Writing a letter might be a good idea too though. </p>
<p>I read somewhere from one of the representatives that the students taken off the alternate list aren’t necessarily the best students, but the ones who have the most interest and enthusiasm about going to UR, so make sure you get that point across in your letter. Hope this helps!</p>
<p>This is just a thought, since I know someone else has posted a thread about being admitted in Jan '13. I would ask about whether that was an option as well. Another way to show interest I would think.</p>