<p>I was unable to apply ED to my top choice school, but want to tell them that they are my top and that, if accepted, I would almost certainly accept a spot. Would it be unethical/uncouth to put in my "WhyX?" for them something like "____ is my top choice for these reasons and,if accepted, I will almost certainly attend."</p>
<p>No, it’s not unethical nor is it uncouth, but IMO it doesn’t really matter in the end…Now, if you end up waitlisted to said school, that’s a different story.</p>
<p>No, its not unethical and its probably a smart idea. If they’re choosing between you and someone else with similar stats, they’d prefer to choose the person who really wants to attend.</p>
<p>I agree. They wouldn’t ask “Why X” if they weren’t interested in how much you want to attend.</p>
<p>I’m not sure if they’ll believe you just because you wrote it in your app that they’re your top choice. However, if you visit at least once, do an overnight, keep in contact with admissions, interview, etc. I think that goes further. Although you’re kind of limited now if you’re applying this year because time is running out…</p>
<p>Definitely include it the “Why _____?” essay.</p>
<p>wouldn’t they just think you’re doing that for every other school?</p>
<p>edit:</p>
<p>
does that stuff actually work? do they actually keep track of who visited, contacted admissions, etc?</p>
<p>Different schools have different philosophies on that. For example, GWU keeps track at how many times you log onto your account on their website. Lots track interest through contacting your admissions officer and visiting the campus.</p>
<p>
That’s the difference between a compelling essay and boilerplate junk they’ve seen thousands of times. If you can give concrete reasons and examples that show why <em>this</em> school is great for you then it’s believable. Trite reasons or vague claims that could apply anywhere won’t convince anyone.</p>
<p>I know some schools that print out the emails you send to them and put them in your file…I think it’s very important to interview and visit and maintain contact. That will show them you really want to go!</p>
<p>Honestly it will depend on the college you’re applying to. Public schools especially don’t care at all if they’re your first choice.</p>
<p>You can ask your counselor to put it in their rec, or your teachers. It shows colleges that you’ve told other people what your first choice is; adds legitimacy because, theoretically, one could notify each of one’s colleges that it’s one’s “top choice.”</p>