<p>Would it be recommended to send a letter to the college I applied early decision to explaining how much it means to me and how much I really want to go there before they make their decision within the next couple of weeks? I am really anxious about getting in, and it's the only college I've wanted to go to for years, so I was wondering if you think writing an additional letter explaining this will be beneficial.</p>
<p>I've never thought of this, and I'm not particularly knowledgeable about these matters, but here's what I think.</p>
<p>You've already shown your interest just by applying ED. If the app had a question like "Why _______?" then I'm sure you also used that to show adcoms how interested you are.</p>
<p>The letter sounds like something that you'd do if you were deferred.</p>
<p>ED itself is cleary a signal you are interested - because one is committed to go if accepted</p>
<p>NYU had 73% of recent enrollees ranked in the top 10% of their high school class - and you've previously indicated you are not even in the top one third -so unless you are applying ED without any need for financial aid, it's going to be a longshot in any case</p>
<p>My GPA and class rank, for all intents, means nothing. My high school only calculates sophomore through senior year for GPA, and just my sophomore year I did poorly. I didn't take any AP or honors' classes and finished off the year with a 3.00 GPA. But during my junior year I took several AP and honors' courses in every subject and finished off the year with a 3.9 GPA.</p>
<p>My senior year is the same. I'm taking many AP and honors' courses in every subject, and my first-quarter GPA was 3.9. I don't see why colleges wouldn't look more at my 3.9 GPA than my 3.5 cumulative or my 3.0 sophomore year.</p>
<p>Does applying for financial aid on the ED application really hurt one's chances?</p>
<p>for borderline cases applying for fin aid might hurt.</p>
<p>however, your parents could really get hurt if they don't and one loses a job. at that time it's too late. you have to file the forms to protect them and you unless you are independently wealthy.</p>