<p>Hi folks - a department head reached out to invite DS to meet to chat in person about an interest he indicated in his app. </p>
<p>Can someone who has had such a meeting, outside of their interview, PM me? I have some questions about what the meeting might entail and what my kiddo should expect/prepare.</p>
<p>Thanks to those who messaged – we are such novices at this whole thing and afriad to muck it up. Bouncing this stuff off folks who have been through it makes it seem less scary!</p>
<p>A request to meet from a Dept. head is a good thing. It means they are interested and want to know more. Have kiddo prepare by reviewing in their mind why they like the subject, what they hope to achieve at the school, maybe make a little cv to remind them of their accomplishments in the subject. Carefully read over the department statement and course offerings before meeting so they can mention specific courses they would love to take. Does the Dept have any special clubs, competitions, performances that may be of interest? </p>
<p>We had asked for meetings with relevant Dept. heads when we visited schools, mostly they were very friendly, and curious about Ds prior work in their field (which was a little different than mainstream). One asked for textbook names. Some schools do not allow this until student is admitted. </p>
<p>As parents we laid pretty low, just thanked them for their time. A few gave wonderful advice on programs to get involved in prior to going to their school, summer activities, and possible development of the students area of passion at the school.</p>
<p>Thanks 2prepmom!</p>
<p>Okay, so new question…It was a wonderful meeting. The department head emailed AO to express “desire to have [DS] attend.” CC’d DS on email. Very detailed email as to why they are interested in him. So YAY, of course. But, how significant is this? Does it really carry weight? Or just a nicety? Naturally DS is over the moon, and I am trying to keep him grounded by throwing depressing stats at him. Help!</p>
<p>We met with a few dept heads last year, but the mtgs were short and casual… And I don’t expect that any of them followed up with the AO with a detailed memo in support of d’s application… I think it’s a really positive thing, AND I think you just never know until M10. Just adds to the suspense, I know! All the best and I hope you get great news that day.</p>
<p>That sounds pretty good, booklady! Couldn’t hurt, anyway. :-)</p>
<p>I guess I’m just nervous about reading anything into it. The pessimist in me is thinking it’s just so much smoke-blowing. But at the same time, hard not to be hopeful. I was hoping a more seasoned parent would have insight, or have had a similar experience. </p>
<p>Sorry, the new site threw me off a bit. I will post later…</p>
<p>I think it could be a very good sign. The said department head must’ve been confident that his email would shape the admission decision. Otherwise he wouldn’t have copied your son on his message to AO knowing what it could mean to the 14 yr old. I am actually surprised he did that…</p>
<p>Benley, that part surprised us, too. Aside from the getting my kid’s hopes up piece, we were wondering if they are supposed to do that? </p>
<p>Booklady, check your PM.</p>
<p>Thanks, Benley. </p>
<p>I would take this as a significant positive. Not routinely done. Maybe respond with a thank you and so interested e-mail from son? </p>
<p>Yes, son replied himself with thank you (as the email came to him specifically). </p>