How To Write A Letter Of Continued Interest With Examples
So, you've applied to your dream college, sent in your application, and now you're playing the waiting game. But what if you could do something more to show your enthusiasm and commitment? That's where a letter of continued interest comes in! Guys, think of it as your secret weapon to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression on the admissions committee. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about crafting a letter of continued interest that will get you noticed, complete with examples and actionable tips. A college interest letter, also known as a letter of intent, a statement of interest, a statement of purpose, or a personal statement, is required by many universities and....let's dive in!
What Exactly is a Letter of Continued Interest?
First things first, let's define what a letter of continued interest (LOCI) actually is. Simply put, it's a formal letter you send to a college or university after you've already submitted your application. Its primary purpose is to reiterate your strong desire to attend that particular school and provide updates on any significant achievements or developments since you applied. Think of it as a follow-up message that reinforces your initial application and demonstrates your genuine enthusiasm. This letter isn't just a formality; it's a chance to show the admissions committee that you're still seriously interested and that you've continued to grow and excel since you first applied. It's your opportunity to highlight new accomplishments, address any potential weaknesses in your application, and ultimately, make a compelling case for why you deserve a spot in their incoming class. This is especially crucial if you've been deferred from early decision or early action, or if you're on the waitlist. In these situations, a well-crafted LOCI can be the deciding factor in whether you're admitted or not. So, take this opportunity seriously and put your best foot forward!
Why Should You Bother Writing One?
Now, you might be wondering, "Is writing a letter of continued interest really worth the effort?" The answer, in most cases, is a resounding YES! There are several compelling reasons why sending a LOCI can significantly improve your chances of admission, especially if you've been waitlisted or deferred. The most important reason is that it demonstrates your unwavering interest in the college. Admissions committees want to admit students who are genuinely excited about attending their institution. Sending a LOCI shows them that you're not just applying to a bunch of schools randomly, but that you've carefully considered your options and have a strong desire to be a part of their community. It signals that you're not just settling for them as a backup plan, but that they're a top choice for you. Furthermore, a strong letter provides an opportunity to update the admissions committee on any significant achievements or developments since you submitted your application. Have you won any awards, completed any impressive projects, or taken on any new leadership roles? This is your chance to showcase these accomplishments and demonstrate your continued growth and commitment. Maybe you've improved your grades, earned a scholarship, or participated in a new extracurricular activity that aligns with your interests and the college's offerings. Highlighting these updates can strengthen your application and make you a more competitive candidate. Finally, a LOCI allows you to address any potential weaknesses or concerns that the admissions committee might have about your application. If you had a challenging semester, a lower-than-expected test score, or any other issue that you feel might be holding you back, a LOCI provides a platform to explain the situation, offer context, and demonstrate how you've overcome the challenges. This shows maturity, self-awareness, and resilience, all qualities that colleges value in their applicants. So, if you're serious about attending a particular college, taking the time to write a thoughtful and well-crafted LOCI can be a game-changer. It's your chance to make your voice heard and demonstrate why you deserve a place in their community.
When is the Right Time to Send a Letter of Continued Interest?
Timing is crucial when it comes to sending a letter of continued interest. You want to send it at the right moment to maximize its impact without seeming impatient or pushy. The ideal time to send a LOCI typically depends on the specific situation, such as whether you've been deferred or waitlisted. If you've been deferred from early decision or early action, the best time to send your LOCI is usually within a week or two of receiving the deferral notification. This shows the admissions committee that you're still highly interested despite the deferral and allows you to reiterate your commitment before they review regular decision applications. Don't wait too long, as sending it promptly demonstrates your proactive nature and genuine enthusiasm. If you've been placed on the waitlist, the timing can be a bit more nuanced. Generally, you should send your LOCI as soon as possible after receiving the waitlist notification. This reinforces your interest and ensures that your updated information is considered during the waitlist review process. However, it's essential to check the college's specific instructions regarding waitlist communication. Some colleges may have a designated deadline for submitting LOCIs or updates, so make sure to adhere to their guidelines. In some cases, it might also be appropriate to send a brief follow-up LOCI later in the process, perhaps a few weeks before the final admission decisions are released. This allows you to reiterate your interest and provide any further updates if necessary. However, avoid sending multiple LOCIs in quick succession, as this can come across as excessive and may not be well-received. Regardless of the specific situation, it's always a good idea to research the college's preferred method of communication and any specific instructions they have regarding LOCIs. Some colleges may prefer that you submit your letter through an online portal, while others may accept emails or mailed letters. Following their guidelines ensures that your LOCI is received and considered appropriately. In general, be prompt, proactive, and respectful of the college's process and timeline. A well-timed LOCI can make a significant difference in your admission outcome.
Key Elements of an Effective Letter of Continued Interest
Crafting a compelling letter of continued interest requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach. To make your LOCI truly effective, it should include several key elements that demonstrate your genuine interest, highlight your accomplishments, and address any potential concerns. First and foremost, your letter should express your continued and enthusiastic interest in attending the college. This is the core purpose of the LOCI, so make sure to clearly and sincerely state your desire to be a part of their community. Avoid generic statements and instead, highlight specific aspects of the college that appeal to you, such as their academic programs, research opportunities, faculty, or campus culture. Explain why these factors resonate with your personal and academic goals, and how you believe you would thrive in their environment. Next, your LOCI should provide updates on any significant achievements or developments since you submitted your initial application. This is your chance to showcase your growth and demonstrate your continued commitment to excellence. Did you win any awards, complete any impressive projects, take on any new leadership roles, or improve your grades? Share these updates in a concise and impactful manner, highlighting how they align with your interests and the college's values. Be specific and quantify your achievements whenever possible, using numbers and data to support your claims. For example, instead of saying "I improved my grades," you could say "I raised my GPA from a 3.7 to a 3.9 this semester." Furthermore, your letter of continued interest should address any potential weaknesses or concerns that the admissions committee might have about your application. If you had a challenging semester, a lower-than-expected test score, or any other issue that you feel might be holding you back, use the LOCI as an opportunity to provide context and demonstrate how you've overcome the challenges. Explain the circumstances surrounding the situation and highlight the steps you've taken to improve and grow. This shows maturity, self-awareness, and resilience, all qualities that colleges value in their applicants. Finally, your LOCI should reiterate your fit with the college and explain why you believe you would be a valuable addition to their community. Connect your skills, interests, and experiences to the college's mission, values, and offerings. Show them that you've done your research and understand what makes their institution unique. Explain how you would contribute to their campus culture, both academically and extracurricularly. By highlighting your fit and your potential contributions, you can make a compelling case for why you deserve a spot in their incoming class. Remember, a well-crafted LOCI is not just a formality; it's a powerful tool that can significantly improve your chances of admission.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Letter
Alright guys, let's break down the process of writing a letter of continued interest into manageable steps. This way, you can approach the task with confidence and create a letter that truly shines. Follow these steps, and you'll be well on your way to crafting a compelling LOCI that grabs the admissions committee's attention:
Step 1: Start with a Strong Opening
Your opening paragraph is crucial for making a positive first impression. It's your chance to grab the reader's attention and set the tone for the rest of your letter. Begin by directly addressing the admissions committee or a specific admissions officer, if you know their name. A personalized greeting shows that you've taken the time to research and are genuinely interested. Express your continued interest in the college in a clear and enthusiastic manner. State your intention to reaffirm your commitment and provide updates on your application. For example, you could start with something like, "Dear Admissions Committee, I am writing to express my continued and enthusiastic interest in [College Name] and to provide updates on my application." Avoid generic opening lines and instead, try to make your introduction unique and engaging. You could mention a specific aspect of the college that particularly appeals to you or reference a recent event or accomplishment that has further solidified your interest. Remember, your opening paragraph should be concise, compelling, and leave the reader wanting to learn more.
Step 2: Reiterate Your Interest
After your opening, it's essential to reiterate your strong desire to attend the college. This is the core purpose of the letter of continued interest, so make sure to convey your enthusiasm and commitment in a sincere and impactful way. Instead of simply stating that you're still interested, explain why you're interested. Highlight specific aspects of the college that appeal to you, such as their academic programs, research opportunities, faculty, or campus culture. Be specific and provide concrete examples to support your claims. For instance, you could mention a particular professor whose work you admire, a research project that aligns with your interests, or a student organization that you're eager to join. Connect your interests and goals to the college's offerings, demonstrating that you've done your research and understand what makes their institution unique. Explain how you believe you would thrive in their environment and how you would contribute to their community. Avoid generic statements and instead, focus on the unique aspects of the college that resonate with you personally. This shows the admissions committee that you're not just applying to a bunch of schools randomly, but that you've carefully considered your options and have a genuine desire to be a part of their institution. Remember, your enthusiasm should be contagious, so let your passion shine through in your writing.
Step 3: Provide Meaningful Updates
This is where you get to showcase your growth and accomplishments since you submitted your initial application. The key here is to provide updates that are meaningful and relevant, demonstrating your continued commitment to excellence. Focus on significant achievements or developments that have occurred since you applied. Did you win any awards, complete any impressive projects, take on any new leadership roles, or improve your grades? Share these updates in a concise and impactful manner, highlighting how they align with your interests and the college's values. Be specific and quantify your achievements whenever possible, using numbers and data to support your claims. For example, instead of saying "I improved my grades," you could say "I raised my GPA from a 3.7 to a 3.9 this semester." Don't just list your accomplishments; explain the impact they've had on you and how they've further prepared you for college. Did your new leadership role teach you valuable communication and teamwork skills? Did your research project deepen your understanding of a particular field? Connect your experiences to your academic and personal goals, demonstrating your growth and potential. Remember, the goal is to show the admissions committee that you're not just resting on your laurels, but that you're actively pursuing your interests and making progress toward your goals. Meaningful updates can significantly strengthen your application and make you a more competitive candidate.
Step 4: Address Any Concerns (If Applicable)
If there are any potential weaknesses or concerns in your application, the letter of continued interest provides an opportunity to address them proactively. This shows maturity, self-awareness, and a willingness to take responsibility for your actions. Be honest and transparent, but also focus on how you've learned from the experience and grown as a result. Identify any areas of concern that the admissions committee might have, such as a challenging semester, a lower-than-expected test score, or any other issue that you feel might be holding you back. Explain the circumstances surrounding the situation in a clear and concise manner. Provide context and avoid making excuses. For example, if you had a difficult semester due to personal circumstances, briefly explain the situation without going into excessive detail. Focus on the impact it had on your academic performance and the steps you've taken to overcome the challenges. Highlight any improvements you've made since then, such as raising your grades or seeking additional support. Demonstrate that you've learned from the experience and are committed to academic success. If you had a lower-than-expected test score, you could explain that you've been working with a tutor, taking additional practice tests, or retaking the exam. Show that you're actively addressing the issue and striving to improve. Remember, the goal is not to dwell on the negative, but to demonstrate your resilience, resourcefulness, and commitment to growth. By addressing any concerns head-on, you can alleviate the admissions committee's doubts and strengthen your overall application. However, if there are no significant concerns, it's perfectly fine to skip this step and focus on highlighting your strengths and accomplishments.
Step 5: Reiterate Your Fit and Close Strong
As you approach the end of your letter of continued interest, it's crucial to reiterate your fit with the college and leave the admissions committee with a lasting positive impression. This is your final opportunity to reinforce your commitment and make a compelling case for why you deserve a spot in their incoming class. Reiterate your understanding of the college's mission, values, and offerings. Explain how your skills, interests, and experiences align with their institutional priorities. Show them that you've done your research and understand what makes their college unique. Highlight specific programs, resources, or opportunities that resonate with you and explain why. Connect your personal and academic goals to the college's offerings, demonstrating that you would be a valuable addition to their community. Explain how you would contribute to their campus culture, both academically and extracurricularly. What unique perspectives or talents would you bring to the table? What activities or organizations would you be eager to participate in? Paint a picture of yourself as an engaged and enthusiastic member of their community. In your closing paragraph, reiterate your strong interest in attending the college and express your gratitude for their time and consideration. Thank the admissions committee for reviewing your application and considering your updated information. End on a positive and enthusiastic note, leaving them with a clear sense of your genuine desire to be a part of their institution. A strong closing can solidify your message and make a lasting impression, so make sure to end your letter with confidence and sincerity.
Letter of Continued Interest Examples
To give you a clearer picture of what a letter of continued interest looks like in practice, let's take a look at a couple of examples. These examples illustrate the key elements and strategies we've discussed, providing you with a template to adapt to your own unique situation. Remember, these are just examples, so be sure to personalize your letter and make it your own.
Example 1: Deferred Student
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
[Date]
Admissions Committee [College Name] [College Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my continued and enthusiastic interest in [College Name] following my deferral from the early action program. While I was initially disappointed to learn of the deferral, this decision has only strengthened my resolve to attend [College Name] and become a part of your vibrant community.
Since submitting my application, I have continued to excel academically and pursue my passion for environmental science. I recently completed an independent research project on the impact of climate change on local ecosystems, which was selected for presentation at the regional science symposium. This experience has further solidified my interest in pursuing a career in environmental research, and I am particularly drawn to [College Name]'s renowned environmental science program and the opportunity to work with Professor [Professor's Name] on their groundbreaking research.
In addition to my academic pursuits, I have also taken on a leadership role in my school's environmental club, where I have organized several successful initiatives to promote sustainability and environmental awareness within our community. This experience has taught me valuable leadership and collaboration skills, which I believe would be valuable assets to the [College Name] community.
I understand that the admissions process is highly competitive, and I am grateful for the time and consideration you have given my application. I am confident that I would be a valuable addition to the [College Name] community, and I remain deeply committed to attending your institution. Thank you for considering my continued interest. I eagerly await your decision.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Example 2: Waitlisted Student
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
[Date]
Admissions Committee [College Name] [College Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to reaffirm my strong interest in attending [College Name] and to express my gratitude for being placed on the waitlist. [College Name] remains my top choice, and I am hopeful that a spot will become available in the incoming class.
Since submitting my application, I have achieved several significant accomplishments that I believe further demonstrate my commitment to academic excellence and my passion for [Major]. I recently received the [Award Name] for my outstanding performance in [Subject] and was selected to participate in the prestigious [Program Name] program at [Institution]. This program has allowed me to delve deeper into my interests in [Subject] and has further solidified my desire to pursue this field at the collegiate level.
I was also recently elected president of the [Club Name] at my school, where I have been actively involved in [Activities]. This leadership role has provided me with valuable experience in team management, communication, and problem-solving, skills that I am eager to apply to my involvement in the [College Name] community.
I am particularly drawn to [College Name]'s commitment to [Value] and the opportunities available to students in [Department/Program]. I believe that my academic background, leadership experience, and passion for [Subject] make me a strong fit for your institution, and I am confident that I would make a meaningful contribution to your community. Thank you for your time and consideration. I remain hopeful for a positive outcome and eagerly await your decision.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Final Tips for a Polished Letter
Before you hit send, let's go over some final tips to ensure your letter of continued interest is polished, professional, and makes the best possible impression. These final touches can make a significant difference in how your letter is received, so pay close attention to the details. Proofread meticulously: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Before submitting your LOCI, proofread it carefully for any grammatical errors, typos, or punctuation mistakes. Even minor errors can detract from the overall quality of your letter and make you appear less serious about your application. Ask a trusted friend, teacher, or counselor to review your letter as well. A fresh pair of eyes can often catch mistakes that you might have missed. Pay attention to formatting: Ensure your letter is well-formatted and easy to read. Use a professional font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and maintain consistent margins and spacing throughout the document. Break up large blocks of text into shorter paragraphs to improve readability. If you're sending your LOCI as an email, avoid using excessive formatting or colors, as this can appear unprofessional. Maintain a professional tone: While it's important to convey your enthusiasm and personality, maintain a professional tone throughout your letter. Avoid using slang, colloquialisms, or overly casual language. Address the admissions committee or a specific admissions officer respectfully and use formal language. Be sincere and authentic: Authenticity is key when writing a LOCI. Let your genuine personality and passion shine through in your writing. Avoid trying to be someone you're not or exaggerating your accomplishments. The admissions committee can often detect insincerity, so be true to yourself and write from the heart. Keep it concise: While it's important to provide meaningful updates and address any concerns, keep your letter concise and to the point. Admissions officers read countless applications and letters, so they appreciate brevity. Aim for a one-page letter that is well-organized and easy to digest. Follow instructions: Always adhere to the college's specific instructions regarding LOCIs. Some colleges may have a preferred method of communication or a designated deadline for submitting updates. Following their guidelines shows that you're attentive to detail and respectful of their process. By following these final tips, you can ensure that your LOCI is polished, professional, and makes a lasting positive impression on the admissions committee. Remember, a well-crafted LOCI can be a valuable tool in your college application journey, so take the time to do it right. Good luck, guys!
This comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge and tools you need to write a letter of continued interest that will get you noticed. Remember, this letter is your chance to shine, so make it count!