How to Deal with Waitlisting

Applying to College
1

<p>What are the realities of being waitlisted at a college (high tier LACs in this instance)? We're NOT sending in any more information or whatever. </p>

<p>Is there really anything to be gained by not emotionally investing in one of the accepting schools, and hoping against hope for an acceptance from a waitlist, especially since students are offered positions off waitlists so late in the game. </p>

<p>I sort of ignored the waitlist option during this whole process--it seems so unkind to students. The college completely hedging it's bets.</p>

<p>I took a chance with meets-full-need high tier LACs, but this is not the best year for that. So far, 3/4 waitlists. Haven't heard from 4th yet.....</p>

<p>Applied and got into high-to-good-quality financial/academic safeties (in-state Unis)....but had so hoped for that really-good-LAC ambiance. If, by some chance, she gets into LAC #4 with a FA offer that truly meets need, there will be fierce rejoicing all 'round. No one is holding his/her breath. </p>

<p>Well, that being said, if she has to attend one of the safeties, it WILL be nice to have minimal debt, since dd's major is one that necessitates grad school.....I am a parental spinmeister!! I told her weeks ago that waitlisting in our situation = no go.</p>

2

<p>When DD1 was waitlisted at her #1 choice we wrote it off and concentrated on her acceptances. DD2 intends the same. It's not worth the agony. Also, this year most schools are saying they have no idea what the chances are of being selected (due to the economy and size of the entering class).</p>

3

<p>I had 2 kids who were waitlisted at their #1 schools. Both chose to move on. Both ended up being quite happy where they attended. The whole process is emotional enough without adding the extra drama.</p>