<p>I think, because this applicant was a fantastic candidate, that the question is, how much does the geographical location change the ultimate acceptance/rejection choice.</p>
<p>I know Exeter loves diversity. They also know they have 80% of students board and about 20% who are from the area. I wonder why this is?? The teacher’s kids also have a better chance.</p>
<p>Are you asking why schools like Exeter take so many day students? Most schools do–SPS is an exception–20% is actually on the low side for day student acceptance. There’s only so much dorm space, so I don’t think the day student/fac brat numbers are really relevant to your situation as a boarder–you’re not competing with them for a slot. And you can’t do anything about your geographic location, so there’s no use fixating on it. Every application has its hooks and its drags. </p>
<p>So what can you do? Again (and remember I’m saying this from the perspective of a homeschooling mama), I think your SSAT score was low–not for most schools–for Exeter, especially for a homeschooler who needs to prove the validity of those “mommy grades.” Also, as a homeschooler, you have a great advantage in being able to structure your school report in a way that showcases what you’ve studied and how it’s unique. Interview skills and essays can always be polished and improved.</p>
<p>And then, once you’ve done everything you can to present yourself as best you can, then you have to let go and know that there’s a lot of chance involved. Don’t let that chance stuff, though, or the stuff you can’t control, keep you from improving your application from last year–this is just your first go-round, and there’s definitely stuff you can do.</p>
<p>@slaverdiere. Ask yourself: does your ONLY school choice have to be Exeter?</p>
<p>What are you not considering some other excellent schools?</p>