The Power of Demonstrated Interest: A Tale of Two Applicants

Imagine this:

Meet Emily. A high school senior with a passion for environmental science, she had her heart set on attending Auburn University, known for its robust interdisciplinary programs. Emily attended virtual info sessions, participated in a campus tour, engaged with admissions officers through thoughtful emails, and even submitted her application in the early action round. Her efforts paid off—she received an acceptance letter with a personalized note from the admissions team, acknowledging her enthusiasm and fit for the program.

Now, consider Jake. Equally qualified academically, Jake also applied to Auburn University but didn't engage beyond submitting his application. He didn't attend any events, reach out to admissions, or show any particular interest. Despite his strong credentials, Jake was waitlisted.

So, what made the difference? Emily demonstrated genuine interest, signaling to the university that she was not only qualified but also eager to be part of their community.

Students touring a college campus to demonstrate interest.

Understanding Demonstrated Interest

What is Demonstrated Interest?

Demonstrated interest refers to the actions you take to show a college that you're genuinely interested in attending. This can include campus visits, attending information sessions, engaging with admissions officers, or participating in college fairs.

Why Do Colleges Track It?

Colleges aim to admit students who are likely to enroll. By tracking demonstrated interest, they can gauge which applicants are serious about attending, helping them manage enrollment numbers and build a committed student body. This practice is especially common among private and smaller institutions.

How to Find Out if a College Tracks Demonstrated Interest

• Check the Common Data Set (CDS): Many colleges publish a CDS, which outlines various admissions factors, including whether demonstrated interest is considered.

  
  

• Visit the College's Admissions Website: Some schools explicitly state their policies regarding demonstrated interest.

  
  

• Contact Admissions Directly: If information isn't readily available, don't hesitate to reach out to the admissions office for clarification.

Ways to Demonstrate Interest

1. Attend Campus Tours and Information Sessions: Whether in-person or virtual, these events show you're proactive.

   
   

2. Engage with Admissions Officers: Send thoughtful emails or ask questions that reflect genuine curiosity about the school.

   
   

3. Participate in College Fairs: Meeting representatives at local events can leave a positive impression.

   
   

4. Follow on Social Media: Engaging with a college's social media platforms can keep you informed and show your interest.

   
   

5. Submit a Tailored Application Essay: Clearly articulate why you're interested in the college and how you see yourself contributing to their community.

   
   

6. Apply Early: If a college offers early decision or early action, applying can signal strong interest.

 Advice for Parents

• Encourage Exploration: Support your teen in researching and engaging with colleges of interest.

• Facilitate Visits: If possible, plan campus tours to help your child experience the environment firsthand.

• Promote Communication: Guide your teen in reaching out to admissions officers with questions or to express interest.

• Stay Informed: Understand each college's admissions process to better support your child's application journey.

In Summary:

Demonstrated interest can play a pivotal role in college admissions, especially at institutions where it's a considered factor. By actively engaging with prospective colleges, students can showcase their enthusiasm and fit, potentially tipping the scales in their favor.

Remember, showing genuine interest isn't just about getting in—it's about finding the right fit for your future.