Waitlisted - Venting and Suggestions

[Guest]

Hi Guys,

I'm applying for Master of Theological Studies (MTS) and Master of Divinity (MDiv) degrees at various universities. I have gotten into some and rejected from others, and that is nice and everything, but my top choice has wait listed me.

Now I don't know how off the deep-end I have gone, but I REALLY want to get into this top choice. It is just the perfect fit for many reasons and I really believe I have a lot to offer in terms of classroom perspective and believe I have a lot to gain by going to my TC. It almost feels like when I knew I wanted to marry my wife; I just KNEW she was the one. Not to say that my TC is like a wife but, if I follow my heart, I know this is the school for me.

In line with this firm belief that my TC is the school for me, I am trying to conjure up ways to let them know how passionate I am about the school and about my commitment to attend if accepted. They are completely open to receiving additional materials and I am in the process of getting recommendations and a strong essay sent to them. But I need to know how to really win this thing, or do everything within my power to make me a wanted student.

They tell me I'm a good fit so I don't have to worry so much about that aspect, but I want to be the person they go to when accepted people decline an offer, which there are bound to be a few of.

I figure a lot of people are in my same situation at this time, so I wanted to share suggestions I've compiled from various resources, including ancient topics from this website:

1. Figure out the school's wait list rules

2. Figure out why you were wait listed rather than simply accepted

3. Write a essay or letter explaining more so why you want to go to the school and that it IS your top choice and that you WILL go if accepted if it is true

4. Give more non-academic details

5. School IS top choice

6. Inform them of new academic accomplishments

7. DO WELL IN SCHOOL if still enrolled

I'm curious if anyone has anything additional to offer? I really would be grateful for your assistance because I need some guidance.

[Guest]

Any experience stories would also be appreciated! What happened in your situation?

[coonskee]

At the program where I interviewed (only applied to one), during the interview weekend, they said to let them know whether you'd definitely attend if you were to be accepted, because that might bump you higher up the waitlist and get you in when you might otherwise have missed it by a spot or two. They didn't say anything about an essay - I think a simple statement of fact would be fine. eg, "Dear ______, I'm writing in response to my waitlist status. I just wanted to let you know that ______ is my top-choice school and, if i were fortunate enough to be accepted, I would definitely choose to attend. I'm extremely passionate about your program in particular, especially because ______. Thank you so much for your time, ______." (line breaks where appropriate )

Good luck!