Does Your Common App Contact List Really Matter? The Truth About “Showing the Love”
Ah, the Common App. That glorious, slightly intimidating online portal that holds the key to your college dreams (and maybe a few nightmares too). It’s the go-to application for countless universities, streamlining the application process (at least in theory). But amidst the essays, extracurriculars, and GPA anxieties, there’s one section that sparks eternal debate: the “Contacts” section.
The Big Question: Do your contacts actually matter?
The short answer? It depends.
Think of it like this:
- The Common App is like a bustling party. You’re trying to make a good impression on the hottest colleges (aka, the most popular people).
- Some colleges are super social. They love meeting new people and remember everyone they’ve chatted with (we’ll call these “interest-trackers”).
- Other colleges are more reserved. They’re overwhelmed by the sheer number of people at the party and can’t possibly remember everyone (let’s call them “the chill ones”).
So, who are the “interest-trackers”?
These are the colleges that actively track your engagement and interactions. They want to see if you’re genuinely interested in them, not just casually lurking in the corner. They’re looking for those students who’ve gone above and beyond, showing a real commitment to their institution.
Here’s how they track your interest:
- Website visits: Have you visited their website, browsed their programs, and even signed up for their newsletter?
- Open House/Information Session attendance: Did you brave the crowds and attend their events?
- Contacting them: Did you reach out with a question, attend a virtual tour, or even schedule a campus visit?
The “chill ones” don’t track you as closely. They might not remember every interaction, but they appreciate the effort nonetheless.
The Common App Contacts Section: Your Chance to Shine (Or Not)
Now, back to the Common App Contacts section. It’s a chance for you to showcase your genuine interest in the “interest-trackers.”
Here’s why it might matter:
- It shows that you’re proactive. You’re not just relying on passive browsing; you’re actively reaching out and engaging with the college.
- It demonstrates your commitment. You’ve taken the time to learn about their programs and connect with them directly.
- It can boost your application. While it’s not a deciding factor for every school, it can certainly tip the scales in your favor, especially if you’re applying to a competitive program.
But here’s the catch:
- Not all colleges track interest. As mentioned earlier, some colleges are simply too big to keep track of every single applicant.
- It’s not a guaranteed acceptance. Even if you’ve contacted a college multiple times, it doesn’t mean you’re automatically in. They still need to see a strong application overall.
So, what’s the best strategy?
- Research, research, research! Find out which schools actively track interest. You can usually find this information on their admissions website or by contacting their admissions office directly.
- Show the love to the “interest-trackers.” Reach out to them, attend their events, and make sure they know you’re interested.
- Don’t sweat it for the “chill ones.” It’s not a bad idea to reach out to them, but don’t feel pressured to go overboard.
Beyond the Contact Section: Other Ways to Showcase Interest:
While the Contacts section can be helpful, it’s not the only way to demonstrate your interest. Here are some other strategies:
- Submit a strong application. Your academic record, essays, and extracurriculars are still the most important factors in the admissions process. Make sure your application is polished and showcases your strengths.
- Write a compelling essay. Use your essays to express your genuine interest in the school and its programs.
- Request an interview. If offered, seize the opportunity to wow them with your personality and enthusiasm.
- Follow them on social media. Show you’re engaged with the school’s online presence.
The Common App: A Balancing Act
The Common App is a balancing act. It’s a chance to streamline your application process and showcase your unique strengths, but it’s also important to remember that every college has its own quirks and preferences.
Don’t let the Contacts section become a stressor. Focus on building a strong application overall, and use the Contacts section strategically (especially for those “interest-trackers”) to highlight your genuine interest and dedication.
Need more help navigating the Common App labyrinth? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! At JobLoving, we’re here to guide you through every step of the college application journey. From crafting the perfect essay to understanding the nuances of the Common App, we’ve got you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!