Does choosing Wrting Option B demonstrate a lack of interest?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Amherst College
1

Wanted to get some perspective. I applied to Amherst on December 31, choosing option B as my supplement. My graded paper was very good, but I’m not sure if it showed them the interest in Amherst they were looking for. I was wait listed at Amherst, but, for comparison, got a likely letter from Penn.

I am a white male from Massachusetts who will not be needing any financial aid.

Any input would be appreciated!

2

I also chose to submit a graded paper, and I was accepted RD to Amherst. I would imagine that either supplemental option is fine. After all, Amherst itself did get to decide on its supplements… If the admissions committee thought submitting a paper would be inherently less meaningful than a written response, they would not have given students the option. Congrats on Penn!

3

Thanks @autumn2019‌

I just think that submitting the app on December 31st, combined with the fact that I am from MA and don’t fill any particular niches (athlete, diversity, low income) could have meant that they thought I was a strong applicant, but that I probably wouldn’t matriculate if admitted. Then again, who knows!? :slight_smile:

4

@235423 According to their common data set, Amherst does not consider the demonstrated interest as part of their admissions process. I know that everybody might say this, but again it’s the simplest and most accurate way to put it: it’s a crapshoot!

I applied on December 31st as well, and I added Amherst to the common app on december 30th, and was accepted RD (really thought I would not get in because I’m an international student asking for FA). I was also admitted to Northwestern, but on the contrary was wait listed at WUSTL and Vanderbilt. When the schools have less than 20%, unless you have a really great hook, you just never know.

Congrats on Penn!! It’s my dream school and I’m waiting to hear back tomorrow :slight_smile:

5

@Rappnic Thanks for your feedback. Who knows, maybe the fact that I am an MA applicant hurt me as well. Who knows?

My fingers are crossed for you at Penn! Congrats on Northwestern, that is a fabulous school!

6

@235423 Thank you so much!