God, I’m lazy. Here’s another C&P from a thread in October:
[ They also get their information directly from the applicant/parents during the interview. Example: What other schools are you looking at/applying to? Usually the applicant is caught off guard and provides the entire list. Most applicants, however, offer up only a few schools and choose to keep their cards close to their vest. Why? Because full disclosure may not always benefit the applicant.
Just a few things to keep in mind when you’re asked: What other schools are you applying to?
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If an AO suggests other schools to add to the list: That’s a negative. ( It means you might be better served looking elsewhere. ). It amazes me how many people don’t pick up on this or get angry when this happens to them. The AO is doing the applicant a favor.
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If an AO responds with: The schools on your list are wonderful but here’s what sets us (this school) apart … : That’s a positive. It’s a buy signal. It doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get in but they’re encouraging you to apply.
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Either way- the school list an applicant gives an AO is information they will factor in later on. It’s not small talk or benign curiosity. But it is certainly nice information to have if they need to hedge down the road.
Frankly- I’m not a big fan of declaring a favorite. My kids preferred the free agent approach to SS admissions and I felt comfortable letting their application/correspondence/ tour/interview speak for them . Even with superb JBS- SS placement, we always kept our feelings about schools private. I didn’t see how disclosing that information could possibly benefit us/them.
We’re applying aren’t we? What else do you need to know? ]
You may not agree with me but at least I’m consistent 