I want to send a thank you letter after my university interview. Is a handwritten letter better than an email? Also, what should I focus on in my letter to express gratitude and reinforce my interest?
A thank you note after a college interview is a good practice and can leave a lasting impression.
As to whether to send an email or a handwritten note, it depends on the circumstance. An email has the advantage of reaching the interviewer quickly, and is often the more practical option especially if the decision timeline is short. A handwritten note can have a more personal touch, but it may take longer to be delivered. If the interview was conducted in-person and sent through the school's admissions office, a handwritten letter might be more suitable. If your interview was online, then an email might be a more fitting option.
Regarding the content of your letter, start by expressing appreciation for the interviewer's time. Then, mention something you found particularly interesting or valuable from the conversation. This could be a specific point about the college that especially appeals to you, an insight the interviewer shared about the college experience, or skill and character traits you developed that you believe can contribute to the college community. Use this to further indicate why you're interested in the school.
Try to be specific, as this can demonstrate that you were attentive and interested during your interview. The letter doesn't have to be overly long. Three to four lines of introductory remarks, a paragraph about specifics from the conversation, and a conclusion that thanks the interviewer again and expresses hope to join the college community would be enough. It's usually best to send it within 48 hours after your interview.
Here's an example structure:
Dear [Interviewer Name],
I am writing to express my sincerest thank you for taking the time to interview me yesterday. I greatly appreciate the time you spent discussing [College Name]'s programs and offerings.
I particularly enjoyed learning about [Specific Topic] and found your insights very informative. It reinforced my interest in [College Name] because [Reason]. I can see myself thriving in [College Name]'s community and contributing positively based on my skills, experiences, and interests.
Again, thank you for responding to my questions and for giving me a deeper understanding of what [College Name] has to offer. I am looking forward to the next steps in the admission process.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Remember to proofread for any grammatical errors and to make sure your message is concise and clear! Good luck.
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