<p>I was a careful student. I applied to colleges across a broad spectrum of rigorousness with respect to admissions. I fell in love with them all and picked on the basis of interest. I would have none of that "I know I can get in here and not hate it too much" mentality.</p>
<p>However, decision time has come and gone, and I've been very fortunate. I must tell five colleges I will not be attending their school, but I don't want them to consider themselves safeties or think I wasted their time. I'd be happy to attend all of them, but I can't.</p>
<p>Should I write a letter in addition to sending my response card? When I note the university I'll be attending next year, my other schools will definitely think they've been used, but that is the furthest notion from the truth.</p>
<p>A nice note is always appreciated, but it isn't necessary. We know that we're in a competitive business, and we know that we won't get every student we want. However, if you have developed a relationship with special people at a school you've chosen not to attend--an admissions counsellor, a department chair--then a letter or even an e-mail is perfectly appropriate. You don't need to apologize--you made a choice, as was your right--but if there's something you particularly appreciate about how you were treated, say so. </p>
<p>But finally, do respond somehow. The most egregious behavior is not the curt "I won't be attending your school" response, it's silence. The former allows us to move to someone on our wait list; the latter hangs us up until May 1. </p>