I think it’s kind of weird that Swarthmore has such an early cutoff for non-campus interview requests, but in any case, I missed it because I was so multi-tasking with other, earlier Apps. I called them; they said, “too late to schedule” (for RD). Anyone know if it affects chances for a competitive school like this? Otherwise, I’m in a very good position for acceptance with my record, probably, but Swarthmore is not a Safety for most people. I just don’t know how much No Interview affects the application. Should I just forget it?
<p>You might wish to post this on the Swarthmore site for more help, but I would suggest that if you are really interested in the school, try to get to the campus to visit. If impossible, and I know it often is too tough to go everywhere, attempt to sculpt your Swat essays to reflect ways you and the school are a good fit. Good luck!</p>
<p>Can't travel, MomofThree. Not enough time or money to go across the country at this time. However, may have to visit PA anyway at some point. Just can't do it now.</p>
<p>I have the same problem! Decided to apply Duke yesterday(I know...;)
but interview request was deu Dec. 1.
and I think Duke a reach for me. Should I just give up, then?</p>
<p>No!!! Don't give up. I don't like those two words. Well, the only reason I would "give up" on a school is if I realized it wasn't a good fit for me. Even though Swarthmore does consider interviews, and they aren't just "informational" like at other schools, I don't think you should trash applying there because you couldn't schedule one. If you have decent credentials, just give it a shot. Apply unless you decide the school doesn't really fit you, and I think at Swarthmore you really need to have that "fit."</p>
<p>As for Duke, I don't really know how they weigh interviews. But as I said above, apply unless you realize you woudn't be happy at the school. What is it that you REALLY like? Specific things. If you can't give specific things but only the fact that it has great academics, great facilities and beautiful campus, then I'd say don't apply. (I think Duke requires a sort of Why Duke type essay.)</p>
<p>But interviews aren't everything. I'm sure there are plenty of people who got admitted to both of these schools WITHOUT interviews. So, I'd say go for it.</p>
<p>Thanks, PlenaFidelis (Full of Faith, yes!). Swarthmore is, yes, a good fit for me in at least 4 areas of curricula, & about 80%Match/20% Reach. I will do what MomofThree suggests & tailor my Supplement to indicate my "fitness."</p>
<p>I missed the interview deadline for Rice...I decided at the last minute that I wanted to apply interim and missed the interview set up by about a month.</p>
<p>The "Why Swat?" essay is very important, so I'd just focus on that and not worry about not having an interview. Make sure that you show that you understand the general personality of the school, and bring that out in the essay. I can't imagine having no interview request mean an automatic reject... that just doesn't make sense!</p>
<p>Ha ha. Yes Classicist!! Another Latin language lover. Amazing.</p>