<p>Completely agree with mafool’s bottom line. S sent handwritten thank you notes to local alumni interviewers, teacher recommenders, and the like. No strategy—just courtesy. </p>
<p>As for the college contacts, S primarily corresponded via e-mail. Most college personnel, from professors, admissions officers, student hosts or tour guides, handed out cards with e-mail contacts for additional questions. </p>
<p>S took their lead as to the preferred mode of correspondence. He followed up with a sincere note thanking them for their advise or time, and when appropriate he mentioned how he proceeded or what he discovered. Asked questions when appropriate. Nothing new here, just good follow-up skills. He was surprised by the level of response to his e-mails. </p>
<p>I think this portion of the article makes good sense:</p>
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<p>Not only is the catchy stuff off-putting IMO, but it’s a perception my S wouldn’t want to convey. Not his style. </p>
<p>S still employs appropriate correspondence and follow-up skills for internships, program applications and the like. To me, this goes under the life skills category.</p>