Adapted from Jay Matthews’ Washington Post education blog, here are 3 steps to take to get OFF the wait list and INTO your favorite college.

Before you undertake any of the following, know that these steps MUST be followed by the STUDENT.

1. Get the contact information for the admissions officer responsible for admissions from your high school.  Get the officer’s email, mailing address, and …
2. If possible, speak to the admissions officer responsible for your high school’s applicants. You want to say the following:
   • Identify yourself and your high school
   • Explain that you’re happy to have received the wait-list letter because this college is your first choice and it means you still have a chance to get in.
   • You’ll be sending a deposit to your second choice school, but you don’t mind losing it if you get in to her school.
   • Let the officer know you will follow up with a letter to make your case.
3. Even if you spoke with the admissions officer, include the points above in your letter. Email AND snail-mail it after also including the following:
   • Tell the office 3 talents, interests, or experiences that would add value to the campus.  Include volunteer work, leadership experience, and hobbies.
   • Give three aspects of this college that would add value to you. Choose an academic one, a club or sport, and an opportunity unique to the city or town the college is in.
   • Close on a light, upbeat note.

As with all your communicaitions with a college or business, be professional: be polite, be brief, and use proper spelling and grammar. Show you care!