Sending a Thank You Note to Penn?

After visiting Penn and talking to some admissions people, I was thinking about sending a thank you note. What's the protocol on sending thank you notes to colleges, or specifically to Penn? Any examples for writing a solid one?

Sending a thank you note to the admissions representatives you interacted with is a thoughtful gesture that can help demonstrate your genuine interest in the school. The protocol is similar for Penn as it is for other colleges. Here are some tips for writing a strong thank you note:

1. Be Prompt: Send the note within a week of visiting the campus or having the conversation - ideally sooner, within a couple of days. Doing so shows that you're timely and responsible. Also, this ensures your interaction is still fresh in the admissions representative's memory.

2. Personalize your address: Address the admissions representative by their name (use their full name and professional title, e.g., Ms. Jane Smith, rather than just Jane). This detail demonstrates respect and attentiveness to detail.

3. Be concise and specific: Keep the thank you note brief – around three to five sentences - as admissions officers are busy and you want to show respect for their time. Mention a particular conversation topic or aspect of the visit that made an impact on you, so it doesn't come across as generic.

Example: "I sincerely appreciate the time you took to share more about Penn's undergraduate research opportunities. It was especially exciting to learn about the XYZ lab, which aligns with my interests in neuroscience."

4. Express gratitude and interest: Thank the representative for their time, insights, and assistance. Reiterate your strong interest in the school and any further steps you plan to take in the application process.

Example: "Thank you for your kindness and for making my visit to Penn a memorable experience. I am more confident than ever about my decision to apply Early Decision this fall."

5. Close professionally: Use an appropriate closing (e.g., "Sincerely," "Best regards," etc.) and sign your full name. Include your email address or contact information if you want them to have the option of staying in touch.

6. Choose the right medium: Email is usually the most efficient and appropriate method for sending a thank you note to a college admissions representative. It ensures a prompt delivery and allows the recipient to store your message for future reference.

A properly formulated thank you note can help you stand out and leave a positive impression on the admissions representative - good luck in crafting one!