How to approach talking to your dream school?

[prznpremed]

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I have a very general question about talking to a school that one might specifically want to attend. For example, I am applying this next application cycle in June and there is a school that I want to attend over any other. My numbers are on par with the school, I love the programs offered, the surrounding area, and I know a handful of the first and second year students. I don't think I would be willing to apply Early Decision because that is just too much of a risk for me, because it's not my state school.

Is there anyway to call and talk to a school's admissions people and let them know how interested you are. Would trying to make an appointment with the dean of admissions be appropriate?? Anytime I've tried to ask questions of admissions people or sent letters of interest/intent (in previous application cycles to schools I've been waitlisted at) it's always been met with a good deal of awkwardness. I don't want to cross any lines or seem pushy, but I'm always hearing people say "let the school know just how much you specifically want to go THERE"... now maybe this is some shmoozing skill that I lack, but I would love to hear any ideas/examples of how to go about doing this. If any current or past medical students, or accepted students have any anecdotes I would really appreciate it.

Thanks guys 🙂

 

[dragonfly99]

It will be interesting to see what others say, but...
I think it doesn't do much good on the front end to be waxing poetic about how much you want in to the school. So do a lot of other people. The school doesn't care because they have 200 other people who would wax poetic about how much they want in that school too. However, once you get to the interview stage, and postinterview, THAT is the time to be telling them in no uncertain terms what you have just told us. Also, if the school has a secondary application (it's been several years since I've done all this, so I don't remember if they all do) then I would make sure to emphasize al this stuff (that you are telling us) somewhere in the secondary if you can. Once they have gotten to the stage of wanting to interview you, they probably have decided you are academically qualified and you are pretty much on equal ground with whomever else is interviewing, at least more or less. At that point your enthusiasm and interest becomes a factor.

I can't give advice about Early Decision b/c I don't think they even had that a few years back when I was applying. However, in undergrad applying early decision is seen as a strong indicator of interest and sometimes helps borderline candidates get in.