I sent a multimedia file containing examples of my talent through my Gateway application about a month ago. Today, I received an email from the department head that she’d viewed it and liked it. She asked if I had any questions. I’m wondering if this is just part of the PR machine, or if it’s a sign that they’re interested? I think my application is pretty strong at this point with good grades, recs, and extracurriculars, although I don’t have my SSAT scores yet and I’m not sure how I did. Also, I don’t really have an questions (although I can come up with some) but I do have some additional selling points that have come up since I submitted, like winning a competition. Would it be appropriate for me to update her on that stuff in my response?
I am interested to hear the response because I thought I had read on CC that they don’t start reading applications until the due date. Maybe the “pre-application” (or whatever they call it on Gateway) is different?
Yes, I haven’t even officially submitted my application, because I’m still working on my essays, LOL. I submitted the Candidate Profile (Part 1 I think), which included the files. They did say you could wait and submit the multimedia files later. But I’m glad I did it earlier, I guess!
I would regard it the same as a coach/instructor responding to an email stating interest in a sport/activity. It’s nice to know they got it, but probably shouldn’t read more than that in the tea leaves.
They are just trying to be helpful by offering to answer questions about their specific department and related activities. I wouldn’t read too much into it. Show interest and enthusiasm for the school by asking questions, but don’t assume too much.
My sense is this is some degree of genuine interest and not just a polite answer or a response to be helpful. Now I don’t know what school this is, but for most schools discussed here, there is no way that an email like this goes out to every applicant that submits a similar multimedia. My sense is that this is genuine interest from the dept head. However, the question then is whether this dept head has much influence with admissions by giving a favorable thought for you as an applicant. At a minimum, you should respond and engage that dept head. Engaging further with questions/dialogue will both help your understanding and perhaps even give you a marginal help as an applicant.
This is the type of thing that could help you if you are on the edge of being accepted and perhaps be a bump to help.
I agree it is status quo, and I would update any awards you’ve received…most don’t start their review of the applications until after the due date and you indicated that you’re application isn’t complete…so go ahead and modify! It definitely won’t hurt.
It is a positive development, but not an assurance of admission.
You should definitely find something to say back to her. Either questions or let her know how excited you are about her program.