<p>Hi! So I absolutely fell in love with Wake, but the problem is it is definitely a reach school. I was looking for some advice on ways to help get me into my dream school. I am already planning on scheduling an interview, but what else can I do? Early Decision is not an option because I have to consider financials. Thanks!</p>
<p>Demonstrate interest–some schools count this in the admissions process. Interview (Wake offers Skype interviews), visit if you can, etc.</p>
<p>Get in touch with your regional representative–at small schools sometimes this can make a difference. If you are a borderline candidate, it can help very much to have one of the admissions officers in your corner to make your case for you. </p>
<p>Meet deadlines.</p>
<p>Make sure your essays are well-done, proofread, etc. Have a teacher, parent, etc. look over them.</p>
<p>Choose your recommendation providers wisely–who is going to make a compelling case for you.</p>
<p>If there is any additional information (ie: you had to take care of a sick sibling, part-time job, etc.) include that on your Common Application. Admissions officers are not omniscient and it can be useful to have extra context of “what” exactly you are doing with your time. </p>
<p>Early Decision can also make a difference. I realize you said that finances are a concern–I would encourage you to check out the Net Price Calculator to get a ballpark. WFU meets 100% of demonstrated need and your PACKAGE WILL NOT BE DIFFERENT FINANCIALLY than if you apply RD. As far as merit aid, Wake does not give out a ton of merit aid and if it is a reach school, that is probably out of the question. With this said, it is totally understandable to want to compare aid packages in the spring.</p>
<p>I hope this is useful and best of luck.</p>
<p>That was incredibly helpful, thank you so much!</p>
<p>I agree with everything willmingtonwave said (how unusual… 
) </p>
<p>I would have said 1) Expressing interest during your interviews! So important. Also nailing your interview will give you a lot of plus points. 2) Write good essays. Spend a lot of time on them and 3) Recommendation letters.</p>
<p>Essentially, all of those other “supplemental” things will have to really help you out. Best of luck!</p>
<p>Thank you! What are some ways to express genuine interest during my interview?</p>
<p>Research certain professors, programs, organizations on campus and know about them. Let’s say you want to do biology research when you get to college–look up a Bio professor at Wake who might be doing research on animals that you’re interested. Maybe email him and ask to meet if you visit campus. In your interview mention this specific interest.</p>
<p>Let’s say you really like volunteering–research what the community service groups on campus have done.</p>
<p>Have an interest and want a contact/website? Just ask here.</p>