I’m finishing up my application for Lehigh University and I just read an article that says they take level of interest very seriously. I live in Seattle and I have not been able to visit (it’s too far + expensive), and am worried this will weaken my application. Do you think it will impact my chances of getting in? Thanks!
I highly doubt that it would impact your chances. If you were within a reasonable driving distance perhaps it would be different.
Older discussion on ways to show a high level of applicant’s interest:
Oh course you can’t visit. They get that. But, you will be considered part of geographic diversity!!! Which is a really great thing!!! It will really help your application stand out. Lehigh does have a goal of having students from every state.
I would call your admissions counselor and ask for a phone interview. Perhaps there is an alum in the area they could have you speak with. It will help if you know why Lehigh appeals to you and can explain that to your admissions counselor.
Best of luck to you! Have you seen the 2010 Lehigh Lipdub? It is on youtube. I think it is the best tour of Lehigh around. Once I was driving down the mountain to visit Lehigh and the song from the video came on the radio. It was like I was in a dream!!! I would love to hear what you think you the video!!!
Good luck. Please keep us posted!
Okay great! I was really worried because I read a ton about how they’ve rejected people just because they haven’t visited and I just haven’t been able to.
Isn’t it too late to call my admissions officer?
I’ll watch that for sure! Thank you so much:)
Since it is so close to the holiday I would send an email. I would be very upfront with your concern that your inability to visit the campus may be seen as a lack of interest. Ask if it would be possible to sent up a phone interview. I work have a teacher or parent look it over and give you feedback. But be yourself - the admission counselors love working with high school students. Your letter should not sound like an adult wrote it, But be honest with your concern - it is valid. Let them know why you are interested in Lehigh! Just keep in mind they like kids who like Lehigh!. You already have a lot in common!!! They have those jobs because they like working with high school students. Keep us posted!!!
@eleanorp22 you are right to be concerned. If they don’t see interest from you, they will reject you.
I think there is information in the portal about Lehigh. Be sure to go through it to learn about the school and be able to explain what it is about Lehigh that you find appealing.
@kikkydee is right also.
Contacting admissions and asking for an interview are both good ideas. They do understand that students who live far away can’t visit. There are other way to show interest. They just take a bit of initiative from you.
Let us know how your contact goes. We would love to hear about it.