<p>When the interviewer asks, "So, what other schools are you applying to?"
is it a good idea to mention you are applying to HPSM?</p>
<p>Any opinion is appreciated.</p>
<p>This has really bothered me too, actually.</p>
<p>I always freeze up and I don't know what to say.</p>
<p>I was honest. People generally know that someone applying to Yale will also apply to top schools. Besides, if you talk about your qualifications in any way, they may be able to infer that you're qualified for HYPSM. Same with "Why Yale?" or "What are you looking for in a college?" If your answer pertains to multiple (top) schools, withholding that info is probably not that clever.</p>
<p>My alumni interview coordinator for Yale told me that they talked to this "brilliant young man" two years ago whose first choice was blatantly Princeton, but they admitted him anyway. He matriculated at Yale in the end, even though he was accepted to both. </p>
<p>I talked about other top schools I was applying to - was admitted. It's not something that will keep you out. And the interview matters so little anyway. Besides, it's not like the alumnus will send an email up to New Haven saying "URGENT: KEEP JOHN SMITH OUT. HE HAS HIS SIGHTS SET ON HARVARD, OUR ETERNAL ENEMY."</p>
<p>Thanks, mist. </p>
<p>I'm just so worried that they won't take my interest in Yale, or wherever I'm interviewing, seriously, if I say I applied to a lot of places, but it's a competitive year and that's the only way to really accumulate options if you're somewhat on the cusp, like I am.</p>
<p>But now I'll feel much less worried about it.</p>
<p>They'll understand that people no longer apply to the combo of Ivy, State Flagship, and Local Community College. As long as you express genuine passion for Yale and what it offers, you should be fine. If you say you're applying to HYPSMWERLKJEWRKLJWELRUEOVJKDHFV because they're "great schools" and have "awesome academics" and "have good teachers," that will not be to your favor.</p>
<p>Also, it might look weird if you're applying to Yale, Harvard, and 10 other schools that have absolutely nothing in common. Just show focused interest, and you'll be fine.</p>
<p>Good luck with your interview. And remember, it doesn't count that much. It can only keep you out if you act like a psycho.</p>
<p>Say, "Just Yale, because Jodie Foster went to Yale and John Hinckley gave me a message for her."</p>
<p>Or you could heed the last sentence of mistofthekane's post if you want to be a party-pooper.</p>