<p>Hello,</p>
<p>I'm new to this board and I just have a question about knowing important people in the colleges that I wish to apply to. Is it extremely helpful knowing people on the inside? Does anybody have any experience with this? I know it's a very subjective topic, but I was wondering if anyone could help me. Thanks a lot.</p>
<p>Of course it is. Anyone who says differently is living in a perfect fantasy world.</p>
<p>That's what I had assumed. Anybody else have any notion of how helpful knowing people in the administration or school government (like a VP or a Chairman) can be? And if you do, what's the best way of getting them involved in the process? Thanks.</p>
<p>The most likely benefit you can obtain is that you'll get a real picture of what attending the college is like (versus the banal information the websites and literature can give you). You can ply this knowledge into making a well-informed presentation of yourself (e.g. I would love to attend your college because of the number of active political clubs which are the foundation of your social action networks and the excellent instructors in your Philosophy Dept (in which I plan on majoring)).</p>
<p>Casual acquaintances (and perhaps alumni from your HS) will gladly give you this inside info if you pursue it. </p>
<p>Of course, you're also asking about "the good ol' boy" network. Frankly, it depends. Many schools actively downplay this so that's a hurdle. Many PEOPLE actively downplay this because 1) why should they stick their neck out for you and call in favors on your behalf? and 2) these favors are limited and what can you (and your family) do in return?</p>
<p>Just "knowing" a VP may get you a nice lunch appointment where you can get some more info but that's it. How does the VP even know if you're half-qualified or not? Unless you're already outstanding -- I highly doubt that the average person will get much "inside boosting".</p>
<p>Of course, there are the "non-average" relationships... with that: who knows?</p>
<p>As to begin to pursue these relationships in order to garner special attention, the best way is to donate seven figures. Really. Beyond that, you're better off spending time on your academics and test-prep. People in positions of influence know when they're being plied for future favors.</p>