How much does demonstrated interest matter to colleges?

Hi guys, I'm a junior in high school and I've heard that demonstrated interest can play a role in college admissions. How much does it actually matter to colleges, and what are some ways I can show my interest in a particular school? Thanks for any advice you can give!

Hey there! Demonstrated interest can play a varying role in college admissions, depending on the school. For some colleges, it's a significant factor, while for others, it's not considered at all. Generally, smaller private colleges and universities tend to pay more attention to demonstrated interest than larger public institutions. The idea behind this is that these schools want to admit students who are genuinely interested in attending and are likely to enroll if accepted. To show your interest in a particular school, there are several things you can do: 1. Visit the campus (either in-person or virtually) and participate in information sessions. 2. Sign up for their mailing list and open the emails they send you. 3. Engage with the college on social media by following their accounts, liking posts, and leaving comments. 4. Attend college fairs and speak with representatives from the schools you're interested in. 5. Reach out to admissions officers with thoughtful questions about the school and its programs. Remember, the key is to be genuine in your interest and not just try to 'check the boxes.' Best of luck with your college search!