The Bowdoin Orient

December 8, 2000
Volume CXXXII, Number 12

Early decision applications up 16 percent

by KITTY SULLIVAN, STAFF WRITER

   The Early Decision Phase I phase of admissions began on December 6, and once again, a record number of applications were submitted.
   Applications were up 16 percent from last year. So far, the admissions committee is predicting similar increases in the regular application pool. This reflects a trend, not only at Bowdoin College, but in select schools all across the nation, as each student is, on average, applying to more and more colleges.
    In general, students are increasingly taking advantage of the Early Decision option, believing that their chances of admission will increase due to their stronger enthusiasm for the College. However, Bowdoin does not strongly endorse this route, and instead encourages students to "take their time when making such an important decision," according to Richard Steele, vice president of admissions and student aid.
    Though the committee has only just begun the evaluation process, they are already extremely impressed with the potential and talent of the Class of 2005. Steele was especially impressed with the strength of the teacher recommendations, a factor that is weighted especially heavily in the Bowdoin admissions process.
    Candidates are rated in six different categories, and the first factor considered is the student's essay and personal statement. While most schools require only one essay, Bowdoin places extra emphasis on writing ability and personality reflected through an essay.
    Steele explained that the next part of the application taken into consideration is the teacher recommendation, which provides a glimpse into the student's approach to learning and their enthusiasm for education.
    The caliber of the school is also factored in, and officers look at what is available to students in terms of advanced placement courses, extracurricular activities, grades, and other aspects.
    Another unique aspect of the admissions process at Bowdoin is that SAT scores are not a mandatory part of the application. While they are helpful tools in gauging a student's skill level, Steele notes that "if [the applicants] don't have scores, we don't assume that they were bad, but it just means more detective work and closer scrutiny of the rest of the application."
    In addition, Bowdoin does not believe in automatically deferring all candidates not admitted in the Early Decision phase, believing that it is "not fair to students to string them along if they would be better off at another school," Steele said.
    He noted that it is too early to draw any conclusions about the class of 2005, but he stated that no two classes are alike, and each contributes to the Bowdoin community in its own way.
    When asked what sets Bowdoin applications apart from others he's seen in the business, Steele commented on the independent spirit present in the applications. He partly attributed it to the rustic geographic location of Bowdoin, but this cannot be completely responsible for the adventurous nature of the students which is present in their eagerness to travel, to risk low grades for a challenging course, or to simply take up a new sport or activity.
    Steele said that the admissions process, while exciting, can be draining, as it is difficult to say "no" to students who are certain they want to attend Bowdoin. However, Steele is comforted by the fact that "if they don't get in here, they will most likely get into another terrific school."
    By the same token, his favorite part of the review process is learning about the quality of the students. "I have done this work since 1962, and I never fail to be excited when I read applications and learn about young people's talent and their potential for the future."