What's the importance of demonstrated interest?

I've heard that some colleges value demonstrated interest from applicants. How do I show that I'm really interested in a particular school without coming off as insincere or pushy? Is it even that important in the application process?

Demonstrated interest can play a role in the college admissions process, but it's important to remember that it won't override other essential factors like your GPA, test scores, and extracurricular involvement. With that said, showing genuine interest in a school can help set you apart from other candidates who might have similar profiles.

To avoid coming off as insincere or pushy, focus on ways to authentically engage with the school. For example, attend college fairs, open houses, or campus visits if possible. You can also join mailing lists, engage with their social media channels, and reach out to current students or alumni. Asking thoughtful questions about the academic programs and campus life when interacting with admissions representatives can also be helpful.

Every college values demonstrated interest differently, so it's essential to do some research and prioritize these efforts for the schools that consider it more important during their admissions process. Keep your conversations and interactions genuine, and you'll be on the right track.