Can I have some tips on getting into EHS, Deerfield Academy, or Hotchkiss?

Golfgr8
Sat, 10 Jul 2021 13:59:02 +0000

Here is what we did and maybe it will help you, as kiddo did get accepted to Hotchkiss, Deerfield and many others (did not apply to EHS).

Kiddo did homework on the schools and the sports/performing arts programs way in advance. Kiddo looked at social media posts, also - not only the official ones from the school, but also posts from the teams or performing arts departments of the schools. Kiddo wanted to get the vibe and a view of recent events/games/concerts/performances.

Knowing about the programs also provided a strong platform upon which to ask intelligent questions during interviews (so I heard). While some people on CC scoffed at the due-diligence (checking rosters on line), this type of information proved helpful - as the coaches expressed they were impressed with how much kiddo already knew about their programs and could tell kiddo was serious about their school.

Kiddo sent emails to AO’s, coaches and performing arts director (specific person) alerting them to the date of our intended visit to campus. Requested to meet with those coaches and/or performing arts director. Included in those emails, were attachments of a highlight video. Kiddo was a multi-sport athlete and was able to meet with 2 coaches at Hotchkiss and Deerfield. Also was able to meet or at least speak on the phone with coaches at the other schools. Also did performing arts audition at 2 schools back then (they probably are not doing that now).

Caveat about this: I don’t think Kiddo would have made these gestures without having confidence in abilities. Kiddo did not want to waste anyone’s time. If you are really are a strong athlete and will be confident in getting a strong recommendation from your coach, I would connect with the coach and send highlight video. We did this and included stats/rankings.

If your strength is performing arts, you can also send in a video, also. Find out the appropriate person to send it to or to meet with in advance - the admissions office can you with getting the names.