My child was waitlisted at ED school. Already sent a LOCI in January but is going to send a new one with new academic information. Is it worth mentioning that child has been admitted to another highly competitive school but school x remains top choice, or does that make it seem like the student is not necessarily going to take the spot if offered? Or alternatively, does it make them seem more competitive/desirable?
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No. Not at all unless it’s a small Lac. If it is there is a better way to handle it.
Can you clarify what you mean by a better way? If they are both LACs?
So if trying to get like more money from one vs another and they are smaller schools vying for students then yes you can play one against the other. But you can also come off as elitist and privileged if your going to do what you suggest. Why would they care since your not accepted to their school yet? One thing I tell students to do but this would of been months ago in the loci or LOI before acceptance to write a letter of intent before decisions come out and ask for a student reference about said major then actually contact that student. At small lacs they talk. They will know you called and contacted. At-large schools it shows interest also and kinda a mature thing to do.
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I would not say “Jimmy has been admitted to Williams, but Amherst is his top choice.” I imagine the reaction would be “Have fun at Williams, Jimmy.” The admissions officer at Amherst works for Amherst and might also interpret that as “Hmmm, Jimmy thinks we were out of our minds not to admit him when he is clearly so desirable.” I just don’t see a scenario where giving that information is a positive.
A LOCI is to express sincere interest and a commitment to attend a particular school if admitted. The letter can include anything relevant that might add more context to the applicant’s app. So it might not be a good idea to say “I continue practicing piano.” It might be a good idea to say “I have arranged to play piano in the retirement home two afternoons a week.” Any significant awards, achievements, or developments could be included: “I have been hired as a lifeguard for this summer… I received the PTA scholarship award of $500 for community service… I have completed the website I have been building since March 2020. Here is a link: www.coolwebsite.gom…” These are suggestions.
The letter can also mention that updated grades are being sent. Be sure to ask the GC to send those grades right away.
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