Letter of Interest vs. "in the area"

[amikhchi]

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I have heard of the notion that letters of interest may (but the general consensus is they won't) help someone get an interview. I have also heard that sending an "I'm in the area" letter will work much better... can anyone comment on that... and if it does work better, why? can't i just say i'll be in the area next week and if i get the invite fly over there if not forget it?

 

[linguini]

I don't think either will help much for getting an interview. An "in the area" letter might help you getting an interview faster than you would have had you not sent it (e.g. Cornell comes to mind).

 

[chad5871]

I agree with linguini. Sending an "in the area" email won't get you the interview, but they will probably be more willing to be flexible with the date (or they may review your application ahead of other people who were complete before you). Also, it's not a good idea to say you'll be "in the area for another interview" if you actually won't. I've heard of schools checking with other area schools to see if you've actually been invited (don't know if this is true).

 

[spike22]

I sent an in the area letter to all the schools early, but it hinted at two top 15 schools I was interviewing at. Shortly after sending it, I had a few less prestigious schools reject me and a few other somewhat more prestigious schools send me interview invites. In a way, that method limits your scope where you can go. If I don't end up getting into these top schools, then I'll be sorry I sent that letter.