<p>Yesterday, DD received a postcard from Oxford, England. I knew her uncle has been traveling in the British Isles so I assumed it was from him. Wrong - it was a hand written card from Dean Emeritus Halli of the Honors College wishing her a successful senior year and hoping that UA is near the top of her list of potential colleges! He went on to describe the classes that he and another professor were teaching at Worcester College - Oxford as part of UA’s summer study abroad for Honors College students.</p>
<p>Timing of the postcard was perfect. We have visited the campus twice and DW and I believe its a great fit for DD and that its her number one choice. However, like many presidential scholarship eligible students, she has recently been receiving a lot of “why Bama - with your grades and ACT you should be going to [insert “fancypants” university]” comments. </p>
<p>The personal touch of a postcard is great. It only helps reinforce what we have learned - that Bama is a special place. And if someone questions “why Bama”, they probably haven’t researched the school and visited the campus. </p>
<p>^^^When D was at the program at Oxford last summer, she saw Dr. Halli writing out those postcards. He’s awesome & I think it’s one of the great marketing tools that emphasizes the personal touch at UA.</p>
<p>Agreed. He definitely made a huge impression on my son. Ds ran into Dr. Halli at an event this spring again. After several months with no contact, Dr. Halli greeted my son by name. I wish I had his memory…</p>
<p>DD and were the parent and student speakers and representatives for several Alabama receptions this spring. Dr. Halli was with us as we traveled. He was a delight to be around. He cares so much about each and every student he comes in contact with.</p>
<p>We got the postcard also. Extremely impressive. I do have to say, though, that I am grateful for this board, because the marketing and personal touches are almost too much - my naturally cynical self might be inclined to think that UA was just trying to lure the students in however they could, and then possibly would not bother with them once they matriculated. Fortunately I know this is far from the case. :)</p>
<p>We did not meet Dr. Halli on our first visit but look forward to meeting him on a future trip.</p>
<p>My son received a post card yesterday. Perfect timing! He had just applied to UA and begins his senior year in high school this Wednesday. This personal note from Dr. Halli really seemed to mean a lot to him.</p>