Columbia campus visit = demonstrated interest?

<p>So I was wondering if Columbia takes into account demonstrated interest. I know most top colleges don't, like Yale, but I wanted to know if Columbia does.</p>

<p>Personally, I think they do. I went to a joint-college info session, and they took down names. On their site, you have to sign up for a tour and fill out things like when you graduate, what major you're interested in, etc.. I know that for Yale it doesn't matter; on their site you don't have to sign up for tours or submit any info or anything.</p>

<p>I got an e-mail invitation to their Summer Science Invitational (the registration includes filling out some info, like above), and of course I would love to go but would rather save the money if my attendence doesn't matter. I researched the going rates for flights, and I found a deal for $400--round trip (from south Florida) from JetBlue Airways and 1 night at a hotel that's a short walk from Times Square.</p>

<p>I've been there before for a Columbia Scholastic Press Association for Journalism during spring break, but it wasn't a technical tour.</p>

<p>I'm a sophomore (junior starting this fall), too, and Columbia is my top choice school. I'll be applying ED.</p>

<p>During my school's College Fair this past year I talked with the admissions representative there; he conducts interviews for undergraduates in my area. I've been in contact with him since then, and he absolutely loves me and says I should go to Columbia.</p>

<p>So, do they really care about demonstrated interest/my attendence at this event? Should I go even if they don't? I know I love the campus since I've been there for a few days before. At this event I'd get feedback from current students there and get some details on each of the science departments, etc..</p>

<p>Thoughts? It would really be appreciated.</p>

<p>I would say it counts as interest to a certain degree but I doubt it would be a ground shattering difference. I’m sure if a person applied with everything the exact same as you, from grades to essay. Except you have had visited Columbia and the other person hadn’t. I wouldn’t think they would consider it much at all.</p>

<p>I’m not saying its bad to visit a college. I would actually highly recommend it because it gives you a good idea of what college would be your goal and see if you like the town( or city in this case) which is near it.</p>

<p>Don’t just keep one college goal but apply for multiple.
Thanks</p>