<p>I hear a lot about if you express interest in a college and let them know it is your number one, that it can really help in admissions. People say summer programs help to do this, but the problem is, I could never afford a program like the Brown courses and I couldn't qualify for aid either since my parents have the money, I would just have to pay since they pay for private school (sorry, long run-on). Anyway, what's another way I could let a school know they are my numero uno without forking over the big bucks?</p>
<p>apply ED........</p>
<p>visit the school on an open house, visit the school again (different date) for an interview and another tour, see them at college fairs, make sure they have your name each time you go</p>
<p>Hey, what about if you are applying as a transfer. Does the same apply as far as going to an open house and what not?</p>
<p>raiderade,
Some of the most selective schools, like Brown, don't care or keep track of interest. In addition, the people that told you that attending an expensive, non-selective summer program at a place like Brown, H, S, etc. is going to help you with acceptance to that school are wrong. While those summer programs are better than sitting at home all summer and doing nothing, the most they might yield as far as an admissions advantage is a supplemental LOR from an instructor.</p>
<p>I think it helps the student connect and make a decision about a place as well as the admissions officers make a decision about the student. Communication matters with many schools.I have seen students offered wonderful financial packages at schools where they made a connection with someone in admissions and kept the conversation going throughout the process. The energy and interest you put in may be energy you get out: but of course within reason. Schools that get many, many applications may not work in this manner.</p>