<p>megblum, you look to me to be in great shape. My experience is that your kind of legacy situation carrys significan weight w/ Swat’s adcom, your test scores and grades are solid Swat #'s, your authentic enthusiasm for Swat is obvious, your extracurrics. are very nice (Nobel not req’d), you write like a champ and, based on your debate career, you can no doubt speak as well as you write. I’m seeing a fat envelope.</p>
<p>The only reason you need to visit is for an interview. You don’t want to pass up an opportunity to personally convey your personality, academic potential and unbounded enthusiasm for Swarthmore. The timing of your visit should not be a factor as long as you can arrange an interview.</p>
<p>Lastly, I don’t think you need to go to the judge, nor do I think it would be particularly advantageous. Swarthmore won’t be swayed by credentials. I believe your best choices are the 2 teachers whom you believe know you and your capabilities best.</p>
<p>You may not comprise a statistically valid sample, but I’d say probability is way on your side.</p>