@hopefulhokie24 I would remain skeptical of any certainty that a LOCI will be considered (if even read) considering VT’s published policy re: wait list status - “letters of recommendation or personal visits will not affect our decision”. Yes, yours is a deferral situation and not a wait-list, but I think it’s more than reasonable to expect their policy/stance to be the same in either case. In addition, the fact that you applied ED already carries the message that VT is your first choice.
Obviously it’s your choice, but your guidance counselor probably has better insight than those teachers, friends, and well intentioned CC posters.