Hi everyone, I am a current high school junior who is extremely interest in Bucknell.
I know that demonstrated interest in a college is important in showing them that there is a chance you actually will attend if admitted and I have a question relating to that.
I was considering emailing my region’s admissions counselor for Bucknell and introducing myself along with asking maybe one or two questions that the answers can’t be obviously found on their website. As a student who is only in the fall of my junior year would this be too soon to make contact? Should i wait until closer to when I apply so that my name will be remember more easily?
Additionally, if there are any recommendations for questions to ask that would be great.
Also, I know that actually speaking in person or touring the university is ideal but at the current moment I may not be able to do that and just want to leave a good impression.
Google the school name & “Common Data Set” to see how much they consider interest. There is a grid that shows how heavily different factors are considered. Not all schools care.
Things you can do if you can’t visit:
- Go to the admissions website and sign up for mailings/emails.
- If there is a college fair in your area that they attend, stop by their table. Be sure to sign in on their sheet that you were there.
- Watch the admissions site to see if they are doing any presentations in your area. Some colleges do.
- After applying, go in to check your portal regularly.
The email you are talking about may not help. They can sniff a made up question a mile away. If you have a legitimate question, go ahead and send it, though.
It’s not too soon, but as @intparent says, don’t waste admissions’ officers time with made up questions.
Bucknell does rank Demonstrated Interest as IMPORTANT in their Common Data Set.
You should also see if they’re visiting your high school.