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File Reading Explained Category

Frequently Asked Questions (regarding your Vanderbilt application)

Jan. 12, 2015—Here is an easy source for your frequently asked questions regarding your Vanderbilt admissions application for the 2014-2015.

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Lessons from a Departing Admissions Counselor

May. 29, 2014—The most important things I have learned in my 3 years in the Vanderbilt OUA.

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What We Look For In An Application

Feb. 3, 2014—Carolyn lays out the five major components that each of our admissions counselors looks for and values in a Vanderbilt application.

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Application Reading 2.0

Nov. 29, 2012—Carolyn walks us through her new and improved process for reading applications.

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Taking Your College Essay from Good to Great

Sep. 26, 2012—Carolyn introduces a great essay writing presentation prepared by Senior Associate Director Thom Golden and Admissions Counselor Julie Chapman.

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A Counselor’s Year in Review

Jun. 4, 2012—Carolyn reflects on her first year as a counselor in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

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So You’re a Transfer Student

Mar. 28, 2012—Carolyn explains how the admissions process works for our undergraduate transfer students.

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How I Read a File

Dec. 5, 2011—Carolyn Pippen on how she reads admissions files.

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Reading, Reading, Reading

Jan. 21, 2010—At this time of the year the life of an admissions officer means one thing: reading applications. Here at Vanderbilt we are inundated with applications and luckily a few days a week I will read applications at home or on campus. Today I am reading in my favorite (and only) reading spot on campus: the...

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Pan Flute Simplicity

Oct. 16, 2009—It's true, Vanderbilt's applications have grown (+73% in five years). A natural reaction is to try and find someway to stand out in the crowd. But for us, at the heart of the holistic review is an understanding of you - your past accomplishments, what you care about, and drives your curiosities. In each of these things - simplicity is a supreme virtue.

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Almost There…

Mar. 24, 2009— Committee has concluded. Decisions have been made. File Checking continues. As you can see from the photos, we are mighty close to mailing day which is slated for Thursday. Stay tuned to the Vandy Admissions Blog for more updates over the coming days.  Now, without further ado, I give you photos of files, shelves and...

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How Admissions Committee at Vanderbilt Works

Mar. 19, 2009—For the past two weeks I, along with my fellow Associate Director and Director of Admissions at Vanderbilt, have reviewed the decisions of hundreds of individual students all across the country. Think of a meeting that lasts 80+ hours long. Yes, it is that fascinating.

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