Hello, I’m planning on applying to UPenn undergrad this upcoming January.
Now I hear that UPenn is BIG on demonstrated interest (i.e. tours, attending info sessions, etc.). I obvi want to standout as much as possible to admin officers.
So I hear that contacting your regional admission officer before applying is a GREAT way to show demonstrated interest.
Now I’m not sure exactly what this means. Can someone give me some examples (i.e. like what you did/how you contacted them)? Like do you just email them with questions you have about the school or do you send like an introduction email (i.e. “Hi my name is ____ and I am interested in applying…”). Also how OFTEN you should contact them
UPenn is big on demonstrated interest, but your conception of what interest is is all wrong. The best way to show interest is through your supplements. ED is another way. Admission officers really don’t place value on emails. You’re wasting your time in my opinion. Supplements are the best way possible.
Demonstrated interest can also be going to the interview. If Penn offers you an interview, best to accept the offer (whether its face to face, skype, phone interview etc.) That is also one way to shows interest. I think you can contact the admissions officers to answer any questions you have (hence having a better “Why Penn” essay), but asking by itself won’t help you.
I don’t know about Penn, but most admissions officers at the Ivies are WAY too busy to answer random questions from applicants. Typically, the admissions offices have admistrative staff or students who answer questions.