<p>I'm a high school junior, and I am very interested in attending Reed College. Unfortunately, I live on the East Coast, and have a pretty busy schedule between my involvement in marching band and crew. I have perused the Reed College website extensively, and I think that I have fallen in love with the school, but I am a little hesitant to call it my first choice because I have never been there, and may not be able to ever, and they do not have an online tour.</p>
<p>So my question is, is it worth it to email the admissions counselor, to just ask about what it's like to spend 4 years at Reed (the counselor for my region graduated from Reed) or is that a question that I should send to a student? (They have an online service for that as well) Or should I do both? I would like to email the admissions counselor so that it's recorded that I made contact, and showed my interest in the school, because I really do love it. Any help would be greatly appreciated, thank you very much!</p>
<p>Nothing’s preventing you from doing both, or just asking the admission office to put you in touch with a current student or recent alum willing to talk to you.</p>
<p>I live in Portland (where Reed College is). Honestly don’t go to Reed. My counselors at my school say that it EXTREMELY overpriced for the lackluster education you receive. Portland is an awful city (too many liberals, hipsters, crazy people, bicyclists, and vegans). I’m moving to PA to go to Grove City College.</p>
<p>I’m in the same boat btw. I am unable to visit Grove City College but I have become obsessed with this school. I would email them but I wouldn’t give your name. Spellcheck!</p>
<p>Reed does send admissions reps to college fairs on the East Coast, hyperion1. You might find one near you. I know that my daughter talked with a Reed admissions counselor in Baltimore.</p>
<p>I went to Reed 2002-2006 and I am now finishing my Phd (which has been significantly easier than Reed). I loved Reed, but its not for everyone. You should definitely do whatever is in your power to visit Reed and Portland. Its worth it for so many reasons. </p>
<p>I visited during my junior year and, after having a preliminary interview, talking to students, and visiting classes, I was completely sold and applied early decision. Note, and I apologize if this has been mentioned ad nauseam , if you do apply to Reed the “Why Reed” essay is by far the most important.</p>
<p>In lieu of (or in addition to) visiting I would contact your admissions counselor and try to set up a phone call. This is a much better medium than email. And contact students (both past and present) to try to get a feel. </p>
<p>Also, Portland is an <em>amazing</em> city so don’t let above poster discourage you.</p>