<p>I really like Grinnell, but i couldn't visit becuase it is so isolated. I should have called for an alumni interview, but i didn't. (stupid, i know) the only interest i have shown is that i'm on the mailing list. I'm regretting this, becuase although Grinnell isn't my first choice, it is a school that i could be very happy at. </p>
<p>Now, I'm freaking out, did i make a big mistake? and how important is it that i show interest?</p>
<p>So email them telling them how much you want to visit, and why it's so impossible. </p>
<p>Why is it impossible anyway? It's only about 50 miles from the airport and there's a shuttle I think. You could ask if they could help you get from the airport. If it's the cost of airfare that's the problem, you could explain that, and tell them that you keep checking Expedia for cheap flights. The point is to show them that you are really serious about Grinnell. The email will stay on your file as evidence of your interest, even if you don't end up visiting. Several emails back and forth about this would be even better. Each "contact" counts. </p>
<p>Also you should ask for an alumni interview. Maybe you won't be able to get one, but you are showing interest by asking.</p>
<p>Then send an email asking about something else. Opportunities to play basketball even though you are not a great player (they let pretty much everyone play). Or swing dancing (they have a very active swing dance club). Or whatever.</p>
<p>If you really are very interested in Grinnell, you have to let them know it. Visiting is not the only way to do that.</p>
<p>I called the week before christmas and asked if i could get an alumni interview- they said interviews are on a first come first serve but i'll prob get one cause i had already submitted my application
pick up the phone and call right now!! also m&m, is right contact is key esp. with these small LAC's- every e-mail is remembered when they review your application
good luck!</p>
<p>thank you very much for the advice!</p>
<p>Methinks ilk speaks truth. I called up the assistant admissions dean, and he seemed to like that I had called to express interest. Even more peculiar was his confirmation that I could send somewhat of a supplemental essay directly to him by email. </p>
<p>Felt wierd. They certainly have a self-selecting body, which I can't say for most other top schools. They can afford to be flexible, without 20,000 candidates knocking on their door.</p>
<p>Don't freak out. My son didn't visit or have an alumni interview. If you want one, certainly ask for one -- it's not too late and they haven't made final admissions decisions. Grinnell knows that it's difficult for students to visit the campus.</p>
<p>ACTUALLY...The interviews should be done by the 20th. I called this week, and the woman made it very clear that an interview was unlikely.</p>
<p>I guess I meant it wasn't too late to show your interest. I really, really wouldn't worry about how having or not having an interview will affect your admissions possibilities. Most admissions counselors I've heard speak on this topic seem to think that interviews are of little importance.</p>
<p>Interviews and essays should be given more weight. The numbers game make for an uninspired selection. Many colleges say they methodically construct their classes. You can't do that with just numbers. That's why I like colleges that attract certain people. Self-selecting student bodies are always interesting.</p>