<p>swarthmore was highlighted in the annual newsweek “hot” colleges issue. that may be one reason for the increase. there has also been talk about the “baby boom” effect that will see apps continue to increase until 2009. there is also the possibility that swarthmore did a better recruiting job than the other places. having attended “mission admission” in may (i think, or april, i don’t remember exacty) and having attended similar days at williams and others, i have to say that swarthmore did the best job of the bunch. i was particularly turned off by the admissions representative at williams who, when we gathered in the auditorium, told us to look around the auditorium and know that 4 out of 5 of the people there will not be at williams next year. although it is statistically true, i found that to be obnoxious. their answer to what is there to do at williams was, williams students liked to enjoy each others company, no outside stimulus was needed. what a bunch of jerks.</p>