Help writing the Wait-List Interest letter?

[Micny123]

Hey all, so I'm normally a really good writer, but honestly can't think of how I should start my letter of interest to schools that have wait-listed me. I have so many possibilites in mind, but everytime I think more about them, it seems to me that I'm actually sounding a bit desperate, which is what I don't want.

Can anyone PM me/post here on a sample interest letter, or simply a few lines on how I should start it?

A few pointers/actual examples on what to write/not write would be nice too. I just don't want to mess this up, so if I could get lines from a letter I shouldn't write or lean towards, and tips on what to NOT do and DO MORE, it would be appreciated.

Thanks a lot!

[mini]

Single point - what makes you UNIQUE - stick out from the other 300 - 3,000 people on the waiting list.

[yayverily]

Here's an outline of what your letter should include:

1. State your continued interest in the school up front.
2. Restate how you could contribute to the school community, why you feel you're a good fit, etc. (as mini says--what makes you unique).
3. Update them with any new info not included in your application, especially significant info (such as big awards, a significant summer internship you have planned for this summer, etc.)

Be realistic about your chances. Some schools have waitlists but don't admit any or many students from them because they've done a good job of estimating their yield. Other schools have 2 waitlists--the real one and the one for children of legacies, etc. (where they don't want to come right out and say no but they have no intention of admitting the student).

[bethievt]

Above advice is good. Don't beg, just let your interest in the school and your unique qualifications shine through.