Writing a thank-you note to a college admissions officer isn’t just good manners. The letter will also most likely go into a student’s application file!

Finishing a college admissions interview is a relief for students. But that doesn’t mean that the interview process is completely over. Writing a thank-you note to the interviewer, typically a college admissions counselor, is an important step in the college application process. Below are a few tips for writing a thank-you note, as well as a sample for students to use as a guideline.

General Tips for Writing a Thank-You Note to an Admissions Counselor

The thank you note should not be a hastily written email. It should be evident to the interviewer that the student put some time and thought into it. Remember the following when writing to a college admissions office to say thank you for an interview:

• Use the Interviewer’s Name: Be sure to address the interviewer by their name in the note. If you didn’t get a business card during the interview, check the college website for a list of admissions counselors to find their correct information. If you worked with admission essay services, you might also want to mention how their guidance helped you during your preparation.
• Address with the Correct Title: If the interviewer holds a formal title, such as “Dr.,” make sure to address them properly (e.g., “Dr. Smith”). Avoid casual titles like “Ms.” unless appropriate.
• Use “Ms.” for Women Without Formal Titles: If the interviewer is a woman without a formal title, address her as “Ms.” rather than “Mrs.” or “Miss.”
• Keep It Concise: The thank-you note should be short and to the point. Avoid long sentences or rambling. Focus on clarity and brevity.
• Check Spelling and Grammar: Carefully proofread the note for any errors. It’s also a good idea to have someone else read it over before sending it.
• Use Professional Stationery: Write your note on nice stationery or a simple, blank thank-you card, using blue or black ink to maintain a professional appearance.
• Personalize the Note: Mention something specific that was discussed during the interview to help the interviewer remember you. Admissions officers see many students, so a personal touch can set you apart.

After becoming familiar with the above advice, it’s time to sit down and write the actual note.

Sample College Interview Thank-You Note

Here is a sample thank you letter to a college admissions officer, based on the tips outlined above.

Dear (Name of Interviewer),

Thank you for taking the time to interview me on (Date of Interview). I enjoyed speaking with you about (Name of School)’s psychology program, student government association, and baseball team. Your answers to my questions were very helpful in giving me a better overall understanding of student life at (Name of University.)

Sincerely,

(Student’s Full Name)

Thanking a college interviewer is not just proper etiquette. Writing a thank-you note gives the interviewer a positive impression of the student and his or her level of interest in the college. The note will most likely go into an applicant’s file, and, if written properly, definitely will not hurt a student’s chances at admission.

Summing Up

In conclusion, writing a thank-you note after a college admissions interview is a small yet impactful gesture that can leave a lasting impression. It demonstrates professionalism, thoughtfulness, and genuine interest in the school, all of which can positively influence an admissions officer’s perception of an applicant. By following the tips provided and personalizing the note, students can not only express their gratitude but also reinforce their commitment to becoming a part of the college community. Taking the time to craft a well-written thank-you note is an investment in the application process that could make a significant difference.