<p>So guys,</p>
<p>I just received notice today that I won 3rd prize in an international music competition! This means I get to perform a solo at Carnegie Hall.</p>
<p>I applied early decision to Penn and got deferred. Does anyone know if I’m encouraged to send updates of this caliber? On the deferral FAQ, they explicitly say
</p>
<p>I think this is quite an achievement for me and will certainly add to my application. </p>
<p>Any input is greatly GREATLY appreciated!</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>I was deferred as well… I think that I’m going to send a letter confirming my interest and saying that Penn is still my #1 choice. I will probably also list a few new ECs/performances/ things that have happened, but none as great as yours! Congrats! That is a true accomplishment in and of itself</p>
<p>Yeah, I was planning on doing the same (reaffirming my interest as Penn being my #1).
So you are sending in additional information? I just don’t want it to seem as if I’m blatantly disregarding their warning…failing to heed advice might reflect poorly.</p>
<p>And thank you! I’m so excited!!</p>
<p>That FAQ notwithstanding, I’d send an email to your regional admissions officer with that info if it significantly augments your application. In other words, if it’s just the latest in a series of comparable awards that are already reflected on your application, I would not send an email. But if it substantially enhances the level of achievement presented in your application, I WOULD send it.</p>
<p>And congratulations! That’s a fantastic accomplishment. What’s your instrument?</p>
<p>Thank you 45 Percenter! It does reflect a level of playing well beyond what I’ve done in the past (I’ve only won state competitions before) so I think I will include this in my email. Thanks for the input!</p>
<p>This sounds like something that would definitely help you in admissions. I would send that email.</p>
<p>Oh, and 45 Percenter. Sorry, I was on my iPhone and forgot to answer your question. I play the piano, violin, and guitar, but I entered the competition with piano. Do you play any instruments?</p>
<p>And thanks for the input as well BigD.</p>
<p>^ Nope–wish I did! But I’m a big fan of classical music, and appreciate the skill of people like you. :)</p>
<p>It’s never too late to learn! 
And thanks a lot! The greatest thing about playing music is seeing it touch people; the joy of that never gets old.</p>