Upcoming Interview: Should I share that I'm only interested in this particular school?

[beansprout]

Hi all,

Thanks in advance for your suggestions...

I'm applying to a few schools for upcoming Fall 2016, have interviews for 2 (other on rolling admissions)... and I have already decided from informal campus visits and researching the school's programs in depth that I only want to attend one school, and if I don't get accepted after this interview, I plan to take courses as a non-student, apply for research jobs, and re-apply next year.

Basically I've fallen in love with this one particular program, it's location could not be more perfect, and the professors are interested in topics that I am hoping to do research in, particularly if I continue onto PhD. I'm seriously drooling over their curriculum and no other schools I've seen appeals to me quite like this one does. After attending an information session, my choice was cemented.

So my question: I have just been invited to a group interview with my "dream school" (yay!) for their Masters program. If the question arises "Where else are you applying, and/or Why do you want to join our program?" Do I admit that if I don't get accepted this year I will simply apply next year after gaining more experience and taking courses with them, or does this sound desperate/not genuine/try hard? Even though I've applied to the other programs, I doubt I will be attending after learning more about the one I'm hoping will accept me.

I have nothing to lose if I have to put off grad school for another year, and from speaking with grad admissions in the college I know that I can take up to 12 credit hours as a non-degree seeking student, and if accepted, those classes will count towards my degree.

What do you all think... yay or nay?

Thanks again for any insight, opinions, etc.

 

[ecneicS]

I think it could only hurt. No one is going to look favourably at your application in view of the fact that you're going to decline all other offers even if they don't accept you. I certainly can't think of a reason why that would help gain admission. It could however hint to them that you are too picky, or that you are unable to cope with non-ideal circumstances. The latter is an immediate red flag in my opinion: there will always be non-ideal circumstances--even in your ideal program--and they want someone who is adaptable.

To clarify, I'm not making these judgements on you, but I wouldn't surprised if the admissions committee did make such judgements, unless you provided them with legit reasons why putting your career on pause for a year is a good idea.

[tapw22]

I feel the same way about the MFT program I am doing an interview for this month. However, I wouldn't tell them that. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the program, but also sound like you have plans to build your career either way! I think they will appreciate someone who is driven to succeed, no matter the school's decision. Good luck!

[rising_star]

I think you can tell them that they are your top choice without sounding desperate or picky. Focus on explaining to them WHY they're your top choice (the curriculum, the faculty, the training opportunities, etc.) and leave out the fact that you'd take a year off if you don't get in to their program.

FWIW, I told my top choice MA program that they were my top choice in the SOP. Granted, this was what now seems like eons ago but, I was admitted with full funding.

[beansprout]

Thanks so much for your advice, everyone! I will definitely not do that then, as I certainly don't want to come off picky or (gasp!) unable to be flexible... great points. If asked, I'll plan on letting them first know that they are my top choice, but that I'm also considering the other schools I applied to as well.

So grateful for this forum and your perspectives!

@rising_star very smart idea to include that the school was your top choice in your SOP!