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Can anyone give me there opinion on Wesleyan. My mom thinks it is worth a look.

By Reeses (Reeses) on Friday, July 04, 2003 - 06:18 pm: Edit

any alumni here?

By Sac (Sac) on Sunday, July 13, 2003 - 07:34 pm: Edit

Why doesn't anyone mention Wesleyan? Isn't it a good match for students also looking at Swarthmore, Reed, Brown,Amherst, Pomona, Williams etc.?

Anyone with any information? opinions?

By Mike (Mike) on Monday, July 14, 2003 - 11:35 am: Edit

I have no first hand info but had a young counselor who went there and loved it and is very smart and a great confident person. I have found that not many people comment on this list and you will have better luck on one of the other boards like College admissions

By Mouse (Mouse) on Monday, July 14, 2003 - 06:44 pm: Edit

Thanks Mike, I'll try there.

By Valpal (Valpal) on Tuesday, August 05, 2003 - 03:17 am: Edit

"The Gatekeepers" is a popular and enlightening book which describes a year in the admissions process at Wesleyan. It also provides a good "feel" for the school. I highly recommend it.

By Reba616 (Reba616) on Sunday, November 09, 2003 - 11:30 am: Edit

I drove to Wesleyan this weekend from Albany, NY... got out of school after 3rd period which was nice.

I arrived just in time for the tour, looked around to scope out my competition ;-). The campus really is beautiful, if you're interested in Wesleyan, I'll just say that the viewbook pictures really don't even do it justice.

The tour went really great, the kids were all really friendly, and one moment that really got me laughing was two kids in a tree who threw leaves down on us when we walked by. The university has great facilities and beautiful dorms, especially for such a small college. Its facilities blew the other LACs I've visited out of the water. I couldn't believe it on the tour, I was so positive that I wanted to go there.

The info session was an info session... didn't learn too much, didn't ask many questions. Unfortunately I didn't get to have an interview, but for all interested in applying, it is strongly recommended.

My friend Tom goes to Wesleyan and is a freshman there. I met up with him and his girlfriend, Katie, at his dorm right after the info session. I had to stop and ask a guy in a skirt where Wesco dorm was... kinda weird...

Anyway, you cam tell that Wesleyan is a really active place just by walking through the dorms. There are political and especially pro-gay things all over the dorms, and I thought that was great.

I walked through Middletown a little with Katie which was just OK. The town is kind of lame, but a cool thing is that all seniors live in off-campus housing. Basically all of the houses immediately surrounding the campus are senior houses, which makes for good parties.

When Tom got back from lacrosse practice, we went to the cafeteria, and I started to meet kids. The food was pretty good in my opinion, but the kids were not. For such a laid back place, the kids seemed very high strung. I would have to call them annoying. In all honesty, I could not tell the guys from the girls a lot of the time... guys wore nail polish, girls had hair shorter than my crew cut... the GLBTQ presence on campus is very visible.

After dinner, we went to a play with 3 actors and only about 35 people in the audience. It was very well done, but very intellectual as well. I enjoyed it, but I knew it wasn't something I would be able to see all of the time.

We went to a movie after the play. There are great movies running every night, I checked the movie schedule. Kids watched the movie, ate food, drank beer, it was a decent time.

Throughout all this time, I realized a couple of things. There are LOADS of things to do on campus. We could have done about 5 different things that entire time, and I think it's great. You can go to parties and get wasted every night if you want, or you can see a movie, concert, play, or go out to dinner every night if you want. In my opinion, that's what college should really be about.

I also realized that I couldn't stand the kids at Wesleyan. You could tell that there were many rich kids, but far left of center, and to some extent, pretentious. They were all annoying, loud, politically correct, and uncomical from what I could see. Many were very cynical and intellectual as well. I really, really did not like the kids there, and I'm glad that I stayed overnight. I wouldn't have realized it otherwise.

If you're at all uncomfortable with a visible gay presence on campus, don't come to Wesleyan. I'm not a homophobe, I have gay friends and hold nothing against them. However, Wesleyan is VERY gay, and openly so.

In conclusion, there are tons of things to do on campus, and the kids are all really active. I'm sure the academics are strong, and from what I heard, financial aid packages are generous. However, if you are anything close to normal, I doubt Wesleyan would be the place for you. It is very liberal, artsy, and especially gay. Take all the freaks from your high school, throw them into a square half mile, and you have Wesleyan. If you're into guys wearing nail polish, skirts, and lipstick, more power to you. However, being a normal, heterosexual, white, suburban kid, I could tell that Wesleyan is not the place for me and will not be applying.

Assess what you really want from a college. Being fairly liberal and open-minded, I thought that I wanted a liberal and diverse campus. By liberal and diverse, I didn't think that PR and other college review books meant what I saw at Wesleyan. I'm going to start looking for more conservative campuses, and I don't mean Bush loving either. Just a place where I can tell guys from girls.

Hope this review was of help.

-Jeff

By Songman (Songman) on Monday, November 10, 2003 - 11:27 am: Edit

Reba616.Thanks you confirmed our feeling when the student tour guide went on a diatribe about Wesleyan's rich kids and leagacies. She then told us all about how the administration was trying to eliminate the reputation of being a gay school. I will say this if the administration is trying to attract more conservative heterosexual students they ought to start by listening to their own tour guides give a tour! To each his own.this school is not for us!

By Procrastinator (Procrastinator) on Sunday, December 07, 2003 - 07:27 pm: Edit

are there any wesleyan students out there who can give a better perspective of the school? considering whether i should apply ED and whether ill fitin wiht the liberal/homosexual presence/..Im International-Asian and wondered how it would be like

By Purple_Fiish (Purple_Fiish) on Thursday, January 08, 2004 - 06:23 pm: Edit

My very close friend got accepted there early decision this year. She is psyched beyond wonders. I also know/heard of two other kids from my school who have gone on to Wesleyan. They are in love with it; they thrive there. I hope this helped..knowing that at least SOMEONE loves Wesleyan.

By Tarek (Tarek) on Saturday, June 28, 2003 - 02:10 am: Edit

I'm heading off to this wonderful school in a few weeks (far and away my first choice), but i still have a few lingering questions, including:

1) A friend of mine that goes to G-town (i'm a midwest guy) said that out east, college students tend to dress nicer... Is this true, and if so, is it the case at wes? I visited twice, and did not notice it, but i'm not terribly observant in those matters.

2) I have yet to receive any info on my room or roommate (I filled out the housing application online about 2 months ago) is this something to worry about?

3) is it better to buy notebooks and general school supplies there, or at home and haul them out?

4) Is it better to bring a notebook or desktop computer... concerning this, is it better to order it from the bookstore or on my own?

I'm sorry if some of these questions seem strange... Thanks for any help you can give!

By Rowan (Rowan) on Sunday, June 29, 2003 - 12:30 am: Edit

Generally,...

1) Dunno.

2) Depends on Wesleyan's policy; Stanford, I know, refuses to give prior information because they're afraid of erroneous preconceptions.

3) It's probably cheaper to buy them wherever you are now, but if you have a *ton* of stuff, you may as well just do it when you get there.

4) My personal opinion is notebook (portability, mostly). I very strongly suggest talking to the school's computer people to see what the preference is on what you have (ie, Mac vs. PC, Operating systems, etc.). Most will suggest purchasing it on-campus, but you may find (once you know what to look for!) that it's much cheaper off-campus. Then again, sometimes the school will have a specific deal (as several schools do with Dell) that can rate a pretty discount. So check.

Not specific, I know, but I think it's a few helpful tips all the same. :D

By Impatheticiknow (Impatheticiknow) on Saturday, January 17, 2004 - 06:08 pm: Edit

Can anyone tell me anything about the science or (especially) math departments at Wesleyan? Is this school really only for humanities majors? Thanks.

By Spiffybrownboy (Spiffybrownboy) on Saturday, January 17, 2004 - 09:42 pm: Edit

Wesleyan was once my top choice... early in my college search. That was before I discovered its science departments weren't great. I mean sure they have the usual science stuff, and it's also probably decent, but no one thinks of Wesleyan when discussing great science/math departments, or even underappreciated science/math departments for that matter. Wesleyan obviously sways towards the humanities, as statistics show that most of its majors are humanities/social science majors. Music/theatre/dance are also very strong there. You should apply if you really like the school (and it at least has your major), but definitely go looking around for more reputable departments, because I don't think Wesleyan is quite up there with its LAC counterparts in the science/math fields.

Of course, this is the impression *I* got when researching Wesleyan. You'll inevitably find people who disagree.

By Dschnapps (Dschnapps) on Sunday, January 18, 2004 - 04:07 am: Edit

I do not know from direct experience, but somebody from my school went to Wesleyan as a freshman this year in the sciences, and had to transfer to UC berkeley because she felt the sciences were very inadequate.

That said, she had other problems with Wesleyan so that was not the only determining factor.

By Haon (Haon) on Sunday, January 18, 2004 - 09:35 pm: Edit

I actually was under the impression that Wesleyan spends more on science research than most LACs...I may be wrong, and traditionally Wesleyan isn't known to be a particularly science-strong school.

LACs that are good for science and/or math are: Williams, Harvey-Mudd, Swarthmore, Carleton, and Oberlin...there are others that I can't think of at the moment.

By Collegeparent (Collegeparent) on Sunday, January 18, 2004 - 09:41 pm: Edit

Add to what Haon says Tufts, Colgate, F&M, Lehigh and Bowdoin -- Instead of the usual large universities, you can also look at Dartmouth, Cornell (not exactly small), Carnegie-Mellon and Johns Hopkins, among others.

By Spiffybrownboy (Spiffybrownboy) on Sunday, January 18, 2004 - 10:51 pm: Edit

Haon and Collegeparent have suggested some great, top-level schools. If you want the LAC feel and a strong science/math department, you actually have quite a few to choose from... you just have to know which. Search for posts by "Carolyn" - she seems to know a LOT about LAC's and helped me out a few times when I was looking for info on colleges.

By Geowill (Geowill) on Sunday, January 18, 2004 - 11:10 pm: Edit

One indication of the quality of particular programs at a college is the number of graduates that go on to earn PHDs in those programs or fields.

According to "Baccalaureate Origins of Doctoral Recipients", compiled by the Higher Education Data Sharing Consortium and Franklin & Marshall College in 1998, Wesleyan ranks as follows (in the liberal arts colleges category):

for the period 1920-1995:
- PHDs in all sciences: 7th (behind Oberlin, Swarthmore, Carleton, Reed, Pomona, and Barnard)
- PHDs in mathematics: 10th (behind Reed, Oberlin, Swarthmore, Pomona, Carleton, St. Olaf, Bucknell, Haverford, and Amherst)

for the period 1986-1995:
- PHDs in all sciences: 5th (behind Oberlin, Carleton, Swarthmore, and Reed)
- PHDs in mathematics: 18th (tied with Wooster, Middlebury, Holyoke, and Smith; 7 schools were tied at the 11th ranking)

By Mariellergram (Mariellergram) on Saturday, January 24, 2004 - 10:14 pm: Edit

Wesleyan does the most research out of any liberal arts college in the nation aside from Haverford. Wesleyan was my second choice behind Cornell (which I got into ED). I almost regret a little that I won't be going to Wesleyan... The student activism at Wesleyan really impressed me.

By Ars (Ars) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 08:59 am: Edit

hey ppl.....i had posted this earlier as well, but it got lost between all the other posts......

"...even though the deadline is gone......i just wanted to ask whether WESLEYAN has any extra supplement or essay aside from the one that was required by the common app?....if yes, what was it?....please reply...thanks"

By Ch2 (Ch2) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 03:19 pm: Edit

no extra essays. Wesleyan was probably the easiest app I had to do. It was nice.

By Ars (Ars) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 04:18 pm: Edit

geez Ch2.....did u read the individual thread for wesleyan....all of them were saying it has a huge gay population.....i am an international and i did not KNOW THAT.....i would have gone for tufts or something.....gawdam.....anyway.....yea, wesleyan's app had nothing extra....very weird....so thanks a lot

By Wjk323 (Wjk323) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 04:23 pm: Edit

where are you from Ars?
im also an international applicant...

By Mels (Mels) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 04:35 pm: Edit

Ars..why, does the gay population offend you?

By Ars (Ars) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 05:03 pm: Edit

Wjk323: Pakistan

Mels: well, not that i am against gays or anything.......but coming from a conservative country......i really don't know what to expect.....sure gays may be fine for you......but it'll be a huge change for me......sorry if i offended you (or anyone)......go ahead and read those posts....

By Lhm501 (Lhm501) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 05:11 pm: Edit

Ars, I visited Wesleyan and read their newspaper and so on. The big story was the opening of their new Transgender Clinic. Wesleyan is well known as a liberal and very PC college community. If openly gay relationships and so on are offensive to you, you will not enjoy Wesleyan. But, beyond gay issues, if you come from a conservative country, you must understand that Wesleyan is extremely liberal and the culture shock may be hard for you. But it is not very conservative to say "gawdamn" so maybe you aren't as conservative as it seems.

By Ars (Ars) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 05:38 pm: Edit

....i meant i don't know what to expect after getting strikingly different reviews from every direction....i don't hold anything gays....just trying to size wesleyan up as best as i can sitting 20,000 miles away.....

finally, lets just say i am a liberal coming from a conservative country (not that stereotyped paki)....since it is an amazing school and i have already made my decision......i'll just go with the flow & hope for the best....(i probably won't even get in, so i guess commenting on something i won't even be able to attain is....lame)

By Wjk323 (Wjk323) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 05:52 pm: Edit

jeje...if you dont mind me asking
ARS what were your stats?

By Wjk323 (Wjk323) on Monday, January 05, 2004 - 06:00 pm: Edit

I have a friend who is attending "wes" right now, and she says that it is the best place on earth. But then yet again...she says that peanut butter and ketcup sandwich is the best sandwich on earth...so I *am* pretty skeptical. However, my friend feels that she is being challenged by the academics in wes.

ARS...I dont think you should expect that much change when hanging out with gays. You should be more worried with the "i-am-a-rebel-without-a-cause" students who wear skirts, wear make-up, and paint their nails.

By Mrgreenbean (Mrgreenbean) on Sunday, February 22, 2004 - 08:57 pm: Edit

Does anyone know about Wesleyan's Freeman Asian Scholarship program? The program selects two from each Asian country and gives them full-ride scholarship. I applied to it and got rejected.....> < My self-esteems is down to the bottom now and I think I will probably get rejected by all schools I am applying to....can't wait for April though....

By Katkitkit (Katkitkit) on Monday, February 23, 2004 - 10:16 am: Edit

Don't be put down by minor setbacks Mrgreenbean! The most important thing about taking chances (eg applying to top universities) is being able to stay confident about who you are and pick yourself up after a fall.

Yup, I know about the Freeman Scholarship programme. (Being an applicant myself! ) How did you find out you were rejected? I have always thought that they mail out acceptances/rejections on April 1st.

Where are you from Mrgreenbean?

Till then, all the best with your other applications. Good luck!

By Mrgreenbean (Mrgreenbean) on Wednesday, February 25, 2004 - 04:29 pm: Edit

Kat (for short),
I am from Taiwan but am now studying in the US. Where are you from?
The school sent the notification to the eight finialists in Taiwan last week. So if you don't get the notice by February then you are probably out. For those who did not get in the final round, they would receive notification in late March or early April. (cruel, isn't it? Let them hope until April...).
Well, I was pretty confident that I'd at least get in the interview stage and the rejection kind of shocked me. But, then again I still have to wait until April...

By Annami (Annami) on Thursday, February 26, 2004 - 07:26 pm: Edit

OK i got into Wesleyan ED. I really wasn't expecting to get in and now im not sure I did the right thing - mostly because this board is freaking me out. So hear goes
- I have no problem with gay people
- Im not planning to major in any science

So please please reassure me. Can someone just say something nice about this school? Its a good school you can say something. please?

By Marite (Marite) on Friday, February 27, 2004 - 08:50 am: Edit

Annami:

Wesleyan is actually very strong in the humanities and social sciences; it has a great ethnomusicology department. As in many other LACs, professors are friendly and accessible.

Its student body tends to be very politicall active, but individual students are not pressured to join. The gay/lesbian population is also visible and vocal, but again, this need not make others feel uncomfortable. You make your own friends, pursue your own interests. Wesleyan students go on to Ph.D. programs at a very high rate.

By Garland (Garland) on Friday, February 27, 2004 - 11:20 am: Edit

Annami: My daughter is about to graduate from Wesleyan. Ignore that one post above that was so negative--it is truly a skewed picture of the school. My D loves it totally; she's really sorry she has to graduate! She is politically active, but most of her friends are not. She doesn't dress "weird" and most other people don't either. It is an immensely friendly school; there is a feeling of supportiveness that I am really impressed with. She started out as a Bio major but switched to Government. She has taken courses in everything from Gamelon to drawing to celtic studies to history of Arabic-speaking countries, besides her major classes, and enjoyed them all. In her spare time, besides being in several political organizations, she has played intramural softball and ice hockey, taken classes in Brazilian ju-jitsu and African drumming, gone with the outdoors club to hiking/camping trips to the Appelachian trail in Tennessee and the coast of Maine, and on and on. It's a great place! Don't let other people's negative views change your mind from what made you apply ED in the first place!

By Mrgreenbean (Mrgreenbean) on Friday, February 27, 2004 - 09:25 pm: Edit

oh...the more I hear about the school the more I feel bad about not getting in....but oh well...

By Annami (Annami) on Monday, March 01, 2004 - 08:51 pm: Edit

Thank you to all the people that replied to my little crises. I just got quite a few, "wait, you're going to Wesleyan? but you're not a communist or a hippy blah blah blah" that day -which I know is really a misconception about the school but that, plus this post just put some doubts in my mind. However I've remembered now that I loved Wesleyan both times I visited so I'm pretty happy. Thanks again!

By Garland (Garland) on Tuesday, March 02, 2004 - 10:10 am: Edit

I'm really glad to hear that. I'd be happy to answer any specific questions you have about the school.

By Leewong (Leewong) on Saturday, March 06, 2004 - 05:07 am: Edit

hi, I'm asking this for a friend of mine: She's going to have an interview with Wesleyan this month. It's the Wesleyan Freeman Asian Program. Please, help her with these:
- She was informed that she'll meet with Mr and Mrs. Freeman. But according to an intro e-mail from Wesleyan she received long ago, Mr. Freeman was a member of the Wesleyan University Class of 1916. So he must be over 100 years old. She wonders he can travel to the Asian region to interview at least 90 kids. Or is it his son? Has anyone here had the interview with them this year?
- My friend is interested in Environmental science. She has searched the Wesleyan website but she wants to know whether it is a strong department at Wesleyan. (she wants to hear from other sources rather than the website)

Thanx.

By Katkitkit (Katkitkit) on Saturday, March 06, 2004 - 07:39 am: Edit

hi there LeeWong and MrGreenBean (sorry for such a delay in replying)

Firstly, to MrGreenBean... yes, i'm a finalist and have already had my interview. Keep your fingers crossed for me

And to LeeWong, Mr.Freeman that's going to interview your friend is, indeed the son of Mansfield Freeman, the person whom the scholarship was set up in memory of. Despite this, the Mr. Freeman who's going to interview your friend also studied at Wes, along with the rest of the Freeman brood/clan. I'm sorry I cannot answer your question about Env. science because i'm not familiar with that particular department. Maybe someone else here can help you.

By Mrgreenbean (Mrgreenbean) on Saturday, March 06, 2004 - 09:51 am: Edit

Kat,
Great! Hope you can get in!
By the way, can you post your stats? Just curious about the selection standard.
Anyways, wish you luck!

By Katkitkit (Katkitkit) on Sunday, March 07, 2004 - 05:28 am: Edit

Thanks MrGreenBean.

I'm not too sure what kind of stats you want since they are after all, different from those in the American system. But here are those that are.

SAT : 1540 (790M 740V)
SAT 2: Phy(790), Maths2C(710), Writing(750)
TOEFL: 290
GCE O Levels: 10A1s
A Levels: pending

ECAs:
Girl Guides
President's Guide Award
Gold Award
Young Adult Leader
National Representative at International Camps at canada and Australia
Organiser of camps for disabled children
Distinction Award winner.

Student's Council
Dialog I/C
MusicFesival Adhoc

Debate
represented school in several competitions

ChessSociety
Vice President
Represented school in competitions, Team won second runners up

Junior Common Room Committee
Vice President
Editor of Boarding School Newsletter

Science Research
Most Innovative Award at the National Youth Science Festival
Merit Award at the Biotech Competition
Commendation Award at the APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Conference) Youth Science Competition

Com. Service
Tuition to Girls with criminal records at a girls home for 3 years
Organise camps for disabled children
Service to the blind
(Total Average of 80 hours per year for the past six years)

Misc.
Passed ABRSM Grade 8 Piano in 1998, playing ever since in small recitals.
Brown Belt in Karate Budokan Association
Won several national art competitions
Distinctions in Australian Maths Competition

That's about it. Take care.

By Wesstu2006 (Wesstu2006) on Thursday, March 11, 2004 - 11:36 am: Edit

Hello everyone,
I just found out about this website and discussion forum about Wesleyan. I am a current student of Wes (class of 2006) and i am loving every minute of my wesleyan experience. Phew, there is so much that i want to say regarding the misconceptions of wesleyan (sciences, gay life, academic standards etc.)But i'll get to post on these topics later on. To begin with i encourage those thinking about attending wes to visit the following website and see what the board of trustee of the university talked about at their las meeting (jan 2004). http://www.wesleyan.edu/wesleyanplanning/fulltext.htt
I believe it's really helpful. It tells you where, academically and socially, the school is moving to.
-Rafael

By Wesstu2006 (Wesstu2006) on Thursday, March 11, 2004 - 02:41 pm: Edit

I took the following information from the strategic essays contributed by members of the Wesleyan community. I am aware of the things going on regarding academics and student life because I am a member of the Wesleyan Student Assembly (student government) and served as a student trustee to the board of trustees. So, feel free to ask me questions and I’ll try my best to answer them and point you on the right direction and to the right people.

The following is a strategic essay contributed by Joseph Bruno, professor of Chemistry at Wesleyan. I agree with him when he says that the sciences at Wesleyan are underrepresented during tour guides and by the percentage of science oriented students accepted to Wesleyan. Just like professor Bruno suggested something must be done to change the mind of those who see Wesleyan as only an activists’ haven and academically strong only on the social sciences and humanities. Posting on this forum is my way to try and change some of the misconceptions about my school. I have posted the entire essay which includes the “good” and the “bad” regarding science facilities and opportunities at Wes. (I believe we do need more students who are interested in the science and who are vocal about their experience. We need more science facilities and faculty). Also if you are interested in what construction projects the university will undertake in the upcoming years click on the link for the master plan on the link I previously posted. For the science oriented students out there, you will be happy to know, that a new science building is going to be erected soon next to the science buildings already existing. But, what I think it’s most important, and professor Bruno mentions, is the opportunity given to undergraduates, as early as in their freshmen year, to participate in scientific research under a professor’s tutelage.
For the person who asked about earth/environmental science: we do have a good earth/environmental science program. Last year, my freshmen year, I had a fellow classmate who worked on a scientific research project regarding leaves. I’ll ask her more about it and post her experience later on. Well, enough of me…read the essay.

“SCIENCES IN THE LIBERAL ARTS CONTEXT AT WESLEYAN
Joseph Bruno, Professor of Chemistry

In his recent commencement address, President Larry Summers noted that Harvard students "will need to achieve a reasonable working knowledge of, and facility with, [science's] means of measurement, analysis, and calibration" and called for renewed emphasis on science across the curriculum. A Harvard emphasis on the sciences certainly doesn't justify a call for a similar plan at Wesleyan, but there are compelling reasons for a Wesleyan focus on science in this Strategic Planning exercise.

We have successes on which to build. National Science Foundation data on the top 75 U.S. liberal arts institutions show Wesleyan ranking first in federal dollars raised for scientific research. Funding is required for research success, and research success is required for subsequent fundraising. This is also an important component of our students' education, and Wesleyan ranks second among liberal arts institutions in the number of graduates who subsequently earn a doctoral degree in the sciences. In a typical summer there are 60-70 science undergraduates on campus to carry out research with Wesleyan faculty members. Many of these students go on to write senior theses on their work, and Wesleyan graduates have spectacular success in gaining admission to outstanding graduate and medical programs.

With these data in mind, we should be more successful in attracting science majors to Wesleyan. Our model has outstanding scientific research programs embedded in the liberal arts framework; it is unique, it is successful, and it makes a compelling story for foundations, donors, guidance counselors, and prospective students. How do we capitalize on this? First, we must continue our pursuit of new facilities. Virtually all of our major competitors have constructed new science buildings in the past decade, while our Admission volunteers avoid taking visitors through some of our science buildings. It's hard to overestimate the value of modern science facilities in the recruitment of science students and faculty, and I believe we need to show a tangible institutional commitment to science in our next round of Strategic Planning. Second, Wesleyan scientists must be more involved in the recruitment of outstanding students. We have always urged our colleagues in Admission to admit more science students, and they are surely committed to this goal. However, they cannot make the case for science at Wesleyan as effectively as can the scientists themselves. I hope for a much closer relationship between Admission and the science faculty. Finally, we must continue our efforts at publicizing the real Wesleyan. I value our students' ability to design their curricula and the level of their engagement with the world around us, and these things are surely not incompatible with academic excellence. However, I am continually disappointed by the view outsiders have of Wesleyan; we are seen as a hotbed of social activism, or the place with "no requirements." We must establish our academic strengths across the University, and we need particularly to educate others about our strengths within the sciences if we are to have prospective donors and science students keep Wesleyan high on their lists of target institutions.

We have the capacity to educate more scientists at Wesleyan, and I believe it is crucial that we do so. We have a great story to tell the outside world, and we must work together to make our case.” http://www.wesleyan.edu/wesleyanplanning/essay_title.htt

Except from the essay of a different professor.
“After almost 40 years on the faculty I am convinced that the research opportunities that undergraduates have at Wesleyan, a primarily undergraduate institution with small graduate programs that bring in the very best faculty, equipment, and research ideas, are the best they could get anywhere. I can think of literally only a very few other institutions (Dartmouth and, though a much smaller institution, Bryn Mawr) that can provide these opportunities. My life and my research have been immeasurably enriched by the more than 150 undergraduates I have had the opportunity to have in my laboratory and the more than 50 papers they have co-authored.”
-Albert Fry, Professor of Chemistry

P.S. for next year as part of Wesleyan’s program houses system, a Science house was approved. It’s called Delta G and science student who live there will have the opportunity to do “science” things (I’m guessing lectures, science programs, etc.). I think this will inform prospective students about the sciences at wes.

By Recalcitrantrec (Recalcitrantrec) on Thursday, March 11, 2004 - 04:37 pm: Edit

How is the Wesleyan's music school?

By Xmatt (Xmatt) on Monday, March 15, 2004 - 03:34 pm: Edit

I just thought I would clear up some confusion here. I'm a freshman at Wesleyan University and I must respectfully disagree with some of the characterizations of the school in this thread, particularly Reba616's.

Wesleyan attracts a real diversity of students, ranging from pretty radical leftists to downright apolitical folks. However, as I've lived on campus now the better part of a semester and a half, I've never felt as though it was really that radical of a departure from the rest of society. Granted, I did grow up unapologetically liberal Portland, Maine. However, I'm confused as to Reba's remarks that he could not tell males and females apart. It is my experience that the school's gay population (which contrary to some remarks here, is not really that much different from most liberal arts colleges, as I understand it) is really not interested in dressing in drag and yelling in your face about it. Most of the gay students I know I didn't even realize were gay until months after I met them and someone brought it up in conversation.

That said, if you're someone who feels threatened or disdainful of homosexuality, then Wesleyan is probably not going to appeal to you. Then again, neither will many other elite New England schools. Based on the reports of a friend of mine, it sounds like the gay population at Harvard (where she goes to school) is far more prolific and active than at Wesleyan, but that's probably just based on who she is friends with vs. who I am friends with at our respective schools.

I, personally, applied to Wesleyan almost sight-unseen (though I did take the campus tour as a junior in HS, but that was it) based mostly on its reputation in my high school and hometown, which interestingly enough had little to do with the social or political climate of the school. I wasn't even aware of this aspect until I was admitted and went to the prefrosh weekend in April (Wesfest). I had an amazing time there and met many other prospective students. What I found was that most of them were pretty much middle-class suburbanites like me with generally middle-class sensisibilities. As someone from this background I didn't feel uncomfortable or out of place at all. It's silly and incorrect to characterize any top LAC or university as being full of "freaks from high school". For better or worse, the middle class, democrat-sympathizing suburbanites run the roost at every such school (to varying extents) and Wesleyan is not really an exception.

Where it was an exception, for me, was that the students were very creative, well-spoken, ambitious, but also sincere in their intellectual curiosity and not focused on pre-professionalism or becoming wealthy per se. This is really what sold me on the school as to opposed to my other options.

Everyone here is correct in that the academics and facilities are very nice (plus the university is going on a building spree between now and about 2007, for more info check out the school's website). Wes is a place that does get you to reexamine some of your beliefs and opinions, but that is hardly the result of crazy activsts as much as it is that the dialogue on political and social issues (if you choose to be involved with it, of course) is a lot more high-level than what I got in high school or with people at home.

I hope this helps, and to the guy who got in ED, don't sweat it. Just be open to embracing what Wesleyan has to offer and it will treat you well. It has treated me well. If anyone has questions or whatever, feel free to contact me on AIM - xmattus01.

By Leewong (Leewong) on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 10:50 am: Edit

@ Katkitkit: my friend said "thanks" to you. You are Korean, aren't you?

By Katkitkit (Katkitkit) on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 12:25 pm: Edit

Your friend is most welcomed, Leewong! And i'm not Korean. I'm Malaysian.

I do hope her interview went well. If she would like to correspond with me more, my email is under my profile.

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 06:18 pm: Edit

Just my 2 cents...

I am waiting on a decision regarding my application for the class of 2008, but I would have to agree, for the most part, with Xmatt and Wesstu2006.

Wesleyan is a school of oppositional forces, whether intellectual or otherwise. The problem, sometimes, is that the more outspoken students set the tone for debates and discussions on campus, which influence how the public views the university. No everyone agrees with some of the more...militant stances of particular groups. For instance, a few months back, the student newspaper had several letters to the editor that complained of the commodification of Hawaiian culture. Being part Native Hawaiian, I was surprised that people who are unfamiliar with the thoughts and issues facing Hawaiians could decided without any prompt to take up the fight of the oppressed. Like it or not we live in a market economy that commodifies everything from the liberal to the conservative. To pick and choose the instances that a particular paradigm is applied appears short-sighted, as did those who purported to protect a cultures Americanization. That the students were identified as minorities made it worse, because they used rhetoric rather than reason to their rant. That kind of situation is always present in the paper and in the community. Some people ignore the oppositional point-of-view. In fact, I even wrote to the online editor of the newspaper to ask how I could have my response included and I received NO RESPONSE. What does that tell you about Wesleyan?

My first impulse was to scratch the university off my short list, but I decided not to be rash. Wesleyan needs people who represent all view-points lest it devolve into a school that focuses to closely on a liberal agenda. I tend to be liberal in social policies, but some of the issues on campus seem minute and so specialized that it seems like those groups are using their discussions to gain power (via specific vocabulary) over those in the mainstream. Look at the hockey player letters to The Argus (newspaper).

How about gay marriage, where Jonathan Goldman urges homosexuals to not give in to oppressive marriage, never mind those marriages make stronger family units and force people to take responsibility rather than be free to break bonds at will--which makes society more unstable. Gay people, like straight people, need to be recognized as having legitimate relationships, whether or not they believe in the institution of marriage. The author, Goldman, miscasts and distorts the issue to suit his purposes. The marriage issue for gays and for the rest of society is inclusiveness, rather than being oppressed because of GENDER or SEX which is prohibited by The Constitution. It is neither about religion, nor definition by militant gays who want to disavow responsibility to society or themselves like Goldman does, but rather about guarantees for all Americans.

I use these examples from The Argus to illuminate what is needed to keep Wesleyan great. Just know that the volatile mix can sometimes be hijacked by the extremes. The reality is that most Students at Wesleyan are open-mined and quick to delve into the core issues in a debate. The extremes in thought balance themselves out in the end...strengthening tolerance as a whole, despite the renegade elements of a few of its students.

Wesleyan remains, in the end, a great place to find out who you are and where you stand on the issues. If, after reading The Argus or listening to activists, you become enlightened, angered, passionate or shocked, then Wesleyan is the perfect university for defining yourself.

Why be unmoved by the college experience, when you can go Wesleyan?

Hope this helps.
Rob.

By Confetti (Confetti) on Saturday, March 20, 2004 - 10:38 pm: Edit

wesleyan seems like the ideal place for me.

april first, ahhh.

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 04:16 am: Edit

I agree Confetti....they wait to find out is what is getting to me. I understand that Wesleyan sends out decisions at the very end of March!!!! The earliest regular decision notification is like the 1st of April.

I think all admissions offices like the April 1st deadline...a great April Fool's joke. Hmmm.

Rob.

By Confetti (Confetti) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 03:13 pm: Edit

haha april first is the magic date.
;)

sooo nervewracking.

good luck to you!

By Thecritic22 (Thecritic22) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 05:11 pm: Edit

I JUST GOT IN!!!!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

By Heyheyhoho (Heyheyhoho) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 05:17 pm: Edit

Thecritic, where are you located? Was it an early-write or regular RD? I got into Carleton today, still waiting to hear from Wesleyan (my two number-one choices)

By Ishuku (Ishuku) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 05:26 pm: Edit

I got my acceptance today!!!!!!!!!!!

I'M SO @##$ING EXCITED!!!!!!!

By Katkitkit (Katkitkit) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 06:19 pm: Edit

congratulations you two.

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 08:07 pm: Edit

I'd better go check my mail then. I'm in Washington...might be a day or two more. Shoot me with a water gun already.

Congrats to all of you, and good luck to all who await The letter.

Rob.;)

By Confetti (Confetti) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 08:26 pm: Edit

holy crap! im not ready to know yet, now! haha!

CONGRATS, YOU GUYS!!! That is too awesome!
=^D

By Ch2 (Ch2) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 09:29 pm: Edit

Congratulations!!!!
I live in CT and I didn't get anything from Wesleyan today. I guess I didn't get in. :-(

By Confetti (Confetti) on Monday, March 22, 2004 - 10:07 pm: Edit

ch2-- we have similar tastes in music

and i really hope not getting it today does not=rejection. good luck <3

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 12:15 am: Edit

Hope not either...didn't get anything in a red envelope from Wes.

I think I just found religion...am praying hard.

Rob.

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 12:20 am: Edit

Good luck Ch2 & Confetti. I'll send an extra prayer your way, free of charge.

I think I'm going nuts. Can't sleep; Can't concentrate; can't even stay focused at this point.

So much for playing it kewl, huh?!

Rob.

By Ishuku (Ishuku) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 12:51 am: Edit

The envelopes are white this year. I was looking for red, too--gave me a bit of a scare at first...

By Thecritic22 (Thecritic22) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 10:16 am: Edit

Right. The envelopes are white, but the packet inside is that gorgeous Wesleyan Rred. I applied RD, and I live in MD. AHHHHHHhhhhhhhh...

By Tropicanabanana (Tropicanabanana) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 10:39 am: Edit

Lynn?

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 11:44 am: Edit

Thanks Ish and Critic.

Congrats on Wesleyan.

Maybe, today will be the day. Hmmm...

Rob.

By Thedad (Thedad) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 12:32 pm: Edit

Rob, you may be crossing with someone I know had to give up something for Lent and decided to give up his religion. ;)

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 01:41 pm: Edit

LOL.

I think so. Maybe I should...plant a tree and watch it grow, its got to be faster--plus I can dictate how it matures with the right plant food and light.

I applied last year and defered (way too long a story), but then I realized Brown was too big. So here I am waiting. I thought I'd be old hat at waiting, but in the last 2 weeks...

Glad to see you again. As always, I enjoy your posts and good luck with your D.

As for me, the time off has definately changed my college wants and desires. Should be mandatory for a year off at least, before college. Too bad admissions isn't like med school residency picks.
Oh well.

Rob.

By Thedad (Thedad) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 02:09 pm: Edit

Which is why I don't like ED. Too many things change for the student, even between Fall and Spring of senior year. I think it's a disservice.

Yeah, good luck to all of us. Soon, now.

By Ch2 (Ch2) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 03:01 pm: Edit

Still nothing from Wesleyan in my mailbox today. Oh, well, I guess I didn't get in. It's weird, I have tried getting on the website since last night and it just says "Can't find server".. I didn't think it was possible to find out the decision online for Wesleyan, but I was going to try to see if it said anything under by Application Status with the Wescheck link on the website... Anyone else find out today?

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 03:47 pm: Edit

Watching for the mail...nothing yet.

WesCheck is working, although they don't post decisions. I too keep looking at the site, hoping to make it tell me. Oh well.

Rob.

By Heyheyhoho (Heyheyhoho) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 03:47 pm: Edit

Ch2...Nah, the WesCheck feature doesn't allow you to check your acceptance status. Haven't gotten a letter yet, and I'm on the east-coast too. Nobody I know has found out, except for one kid from my school who got an early-write a few weeks ago. I must add that you have a fine taste in music.

By Confetti (Confetti) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 03:47 pm: Edit

i called the admissions office before, and they said that you cannot check your decision online.
=^/

By Ch2 (Ch2) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 04:46 pm: Edit

Thanks for the info.

That's sort of weird that you both like my taste in music. I mean, I know most of the music I listen to is fairly mainstream, but there is nobody else at my high school I know that listens to the same music as me, which I find a little odd.

Congrats to those who have found out; the rest of us can only wait and hope.

Oh, by the way, I was also wondering if anyone here has also applied to Grinnell. I just got in there and since there is a strong chance I will be rejected everywhere else (besides my state school) I am strongly considering going there. Since it seems like people who apply to Wesleyan sometimes also apply to Grinnell (they are sort of similar in some ways), I just thought I would check to see if any of you are considering Grinnell and/or what you think of it.

By Stluciang17 (Stluciang17) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 04:50 pm: Edit

Hey, i posted this on college search but I think i will get a better response here. Why isn't wesleyan considered a good place for science. Is the science program that bad? Do they have a respectable pre-med program?

Thanks

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 04:53 pm: Edit

I too am waiting for Grinnell. I did get a call about my app...told it read very strong.

Grinnell has a billion dollar endowment and they are generous with aid and scholarships. Very similar to Carleton & Oberlin. Campus is beautiful and people are nice. The students are just as liberal as at Wes, but they are more laid-back and more accepting of opposing viewpoints in someways.

BTW..also like the music. Strange, huh?

Going to check the mail...again.

Rob.

By Xmatt (Xmatt) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 07:58 pm: Edit

Just a note about the science thing...that is false. A lot of the science programs at Wesleyan are excellent. Ranking undergraduate sciences programs is silly because it's such a holistic experience, especially at an LAC like Wes... for what it's worth, I'm involved with the astronomy department and may even be majoring in astro/physics. It's a very small department (like 6 or 7 faculty, 10 grad students, and about 15-20 undergraduate majors per class) so everyone who is involved gets a lot of attention and help...everyone writes a thesis, everyone has access to the observatory equipment to do their research. The placement rate into top grad programs and summer programs is amazing, but that may also be due to the fact that almost no one declares the major unless they're very serious about it (unlike econ or soc) because it's not impossible to just slip through the cracks...you'll be known by everyone in the department. I can't necessarily vouch for bigger science departments like biology but we get more NSF grants per student than any other LAC in the nation (a fact the admissions office tells us tour guides to mention prominently) bar none, so they must be doing something right.

Also, to people who are still waiting...the length of time it takes for the letter to arrive doesn't indicate the decision at all. Last year a kid from my school got his rejection before I got my acceptance, and another kid got his rejection on the same day I got my acceptance, so it's just really just USPS flukes - don't sweat it and good luck!

By Confetti (Confetti) on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 08:53 pm: Edit

ch2-- no one else in my school has similar music taste either. the pixies are my all time fave band.

the admissions office said that if we haven't heard BY april third, then we should call them to see what's up. so, no need to freak out just yet. ;)

xmatt: thanks for your words of wisdom

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Wednesday, March 24, 2004 - 02:02 am: Edit

That's good to know. I'm supposed to go to the coast this weekend, and am torn about it. I thought that I would have heard from Wes around that time.

Knowing my luck so far, it will come while I'm enjoying the rain on the Washington seashore. Of course it was sunny for the last week. Grrrr...and it will be sunny until friday. Figures.

Crossing fingers for all of us.

Rob.

By Curiousone (Curiousone) on Wednesday, March 24, 2004 - 03:36 pm: Edit

I was told when I called that it would be mailed on April 1. (??? considering some people got it already...) And that if you don't get it by the 6th, you can call.

By Ishuku (Ishuku) on Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 12:03 am: Edit

www.livejournal.com/users/wes08

The listserv is sorta dead, so here's the Wesleyan 2008 LJ community.

By Katkitkit (Katkitkit) on Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 02:34 am: Edit

Ladies and Gentlemen....

I GOT THE WESLEYAN FREEMAN ASIAN SCHOLARSHIP!!!

Looking forward to seeing the rest of you in Wes this September.

Woohoo!!! (in euphoria right now)

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 04:28 am: Edit

Congrats Kat!

Rob.

By Littleprince (Littleprince) on Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 07:41 am: Edit

Congrats Kat!! Wish u every success at Wesleyan!
btw, how did get notified, Kat? I'm also a freeman finalist, but i haven't heard anything from them yet and, i almost forget to ask, where r u from?

By Garland (Garland) on Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 09:32 am: Edit

Congratulations, Kat! Wes is a fantastic school!

By Katkitkit (Katkitkit) on Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 10:06 am: Edit

Thanks everyone!! I'm extremely excited about going to Wes... and sure hope to see at least some if not all of you there. Maybe we could have some CC users gathering or something.

Littleprince: I'm from Malaysia. I just got notified an hour or so before my previous post. I know an applicant from Indonesia who has received hers as well. But I think you should give it a day or two more before making any conclusions. It was via UPS mail. And until you get news... all the best!! Oh ya..my turn... where are you from?

By Leewong (Leewong) on Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 10:28 am: Edit

Katkitkit: when exactly in March was your interview? did you have the interview with Mr and Mrs. Freeman? my friend is so impatient right now because I just told her that you and an Indonesian friend of yours got notified. She hasn't heard anything. I really hope she'll get in.

By Katkitkit (Katkitkit) on Friday, March 26, 2004 - 03:30 am: Edit

Leewong: I can't exactly recall when my interview was but I'm sure that it was over by the time you were here asking about it. And no, those candidates from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, HongKong, Thailand, Vietnam and the Phillippines were interviewed by Ms. Terri Overton and Mdm. Alice Hadler.

Wishing your friend the best of luck.

By Littleprince (Littleprince) on Friday, March 26, 2004 - 09:10 am: Edit

Kat: Thanks for your nice words. I'm from China. Actually a friend of mine, also a finalist this year, got the acceptance just several hours ago via UPS. Guess I have no chance at Wes though. Anyway, wish you have four fulfilling years at MIddletown!

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 07:35 pm: Edit

AAaaaaggghhh! I thought for sure that I would have heard something from Wesleyan by now. I just want the process to be done soon. I'm sure we all do.

Did anyone hear anything over the weekend?

Rob.

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 07:38 pm: Edit

AAaaaaggghhh! I thought for sure that I would have heard something from Wesleyan by now. I just want the process to be done soon. I'm sure we all do.

Did anyone hear anything over the weekend?

Rob.

By Ch2 (Ch2) on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 07:50 pm: Edit

Nothing yet, and I live in CT. Soon I hope....
Good luck!!

By Ishuku (Ishuku) on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 10:40 pm: Edit

My mom called the admissions office today for information about the airport, and they said that they try to mail applicants who live further away first in order for those people to be able to book planes to attend WesFest, whereas they'll hold off on mailing admits who live close to the university because they can just drive there. So have hope!

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Tuesday, March 30, 2004 - 01:50 am: Edit

Thanks. I'm crossing my fingers for you too.

According to Ish, the prospects look better for you, ch2. I live in Washington state, and April 1st is fast approaching. Maybe tomorrow.

Ish...thank you for your confidence.

There is less pressure, since I heard from Grinnell today, but jeez am I wound up. I'm not normally they type to worry. My friends would laugh if they knew.

I'm going to listen to Changefoot, have a nice virgin colada and pretend I'm on a beach somewhere. I'll know soon whether I'm going to be chilling out in Iowa, or taking it easy in Middletown.

Rob.

By Curiousone (Curiousone) on Wednesday, March 31, 2004 - 03:08 pm: Edit

I got in! =)

By Ch2 (Ch2) on Wednesday, March 31, 2004 - 04:37 pm: Edit

Congrats, Curiousone!

I got in, today, too! I was totally surprised!!

If anyone is wondering, it was sent First-Class mail and was postmarked March 30th.

Good luck to everyone else!! You all seem like great people - I'm hoping that you guys are all out celebrating right now and that's why you haven't posted!

By Confetti (Confetti) on Wednesday, March 31, 2004 - 08:23 pm: Edit

congrats, you guys!

was it a big envelope?

i guess i'll be getting it tomorrow, but i won't be home. hee.

again: CONGRATULATIONS!

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Wednesday, March 31, 2004 - 08:28 pm: Edit

Great job ch2 & Curious!

I'm very happy for you!

As for me, I still haven't heard, but I'm on the West Coast. Hopefully tomorrow.

Anyways, enjoy the moment and go an celebrate your awesome news!!

Rob.

By Curiousone (Curiousone) on Wednesday, March 31, 2004 - 09:38 pm: Edit

Confetti, yes, big 9 x 12 envelope - regular mail, red Wesleyan folder inside!

Thanks you guys. =)

By Asen (Asen) on Wednesday, March 31, 2004 - 09:48 pm: Edit

yup...i packed all the admit packets...someone will thank me some time...

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Thursday, April 01, 2004 - 02:15 pm: Edit

Hey Asen...

I'll thank you, once I recieve the large packet.

Actually, I'll thank you in advance--whether I get one or not. I cannot imagine the number of things you have had to do before the mass mailing.
I have enough trouble keeping track of all the paperwork regarding college admissions, though I'm somehow very organized at work. Oh well.

Bet you're glad this admissions season is over.

Enjoy your new found time.
Rob.

By Ziplocky (Ziplocky) on Thursday, April 01, 2004 - 08:46 pm: Edit

I got in!

University Scholar!

they sent me a sticker *squee*

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 12:14 am: Edit

Hey there...

Just got news...guess I'm going to Grinnell.
With the WL and the acceptances, my college search is done.

I'm surprizingly okay with the outcome. Thought I would be disappointed, but I just feel luckier than most.

Congrats to all who made it to Wes!
Rob.

By Geowill (Geowill) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 01:21 am: Edit

Ahh, Asen, can't we get Bjturlington in? He sounds pretty cool, like most of the Wes community.

By Arthas (Arthas) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 07:20 am: Edit

Asen... I hope I have to thank you very soon ... . Were there any admit packages destined for India? I hope there was one for me!

By Xmatt (Xmatt) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 10:20 am: Edit

That's too bad Bjturlington, I was really hoping you would get in. You should stay on the WL anyway even though I know sometimes it makes you just want to forget about the school and go elsewhere. Good luck at Grinnell if that's where you end up.

By Silvertree115 (Silvertree115) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 04:37 pm: Edit

Anyone *still* not heard?

By Arthas (Arthas) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 05:35 pm: Edit

yeah.. me. I'm in India.It's taking too long...

By Eccentricity (Eccentricity) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 06:36 pm: Edit

woohooo!!! got in!!!

By Dustie (Dustie) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 08:55 pm: Edit

Does anyone know about what percent of thsoe wait-listed eventualy get in?

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Friday, April 02, 2004 - 11:42 pm: Edit

To Geowill and Xmatt...

Thanks for the support.

Maybe I'll go to Yale just so that I can hang out with you all. This just was not my year for Wesleyan.

I'm good though. Grinnell and Wesleyan were my two top choices, and my admissions patter was relatively normal except for the Kenyon and Northeastern waitlist.

I'll have to give you guys a run for your money.

Again, thanks for the support. Wes is truely a special place.

Rob.

By Xmatt (Xmatt) on Saturday, April 03, 2004 - 12:14 am: Edit

Dustie- last year the Argus published its article on the admissions numbers which listed the accept rate (I believe) at 23%, and the final accept rate (published on TPR) was 26%, so 3% of the 7000 applications received were waitlisted and subsequently accepted (that's about 200 people, which seems pretty high so I might be getting the numbers wrong, this is off the top of my head). I'm not sure if admissions once again decided to overshoot the yield rate this year or if they upped the initial accept rate to avoid using the WL. I will keep you guys posted with my estimate of what the WL activity will be like when this year's admissions article comes out (probably on Tuesday).

By Dizzyizzy75 (Dizzyizzy75) on Saturday, April 03, 2004 - 02:26 pm: Edit

I was waitlisted from Wesleyan. What should I do to increase my chances? I'll write that essay they mentioned, displaying my interest, have my guidance counselor place a phone call expressing my interest for me, and so forth.

What should I do that will truly stand out?

By Thedaymare (Thedaymare) on Saturday, April 03, 2004 - 10:39 pm: Edit

Hey guys....so I'm busy procrastinating writing this report and I figured I would do some research on Wesfest and I ended up here. I figured that this would be a good place to maybe meet some people who will be joining me in the Class of '08 at Wesleyan next year. Oh, for a little background info. My name's Becky, I live in PA, and I applied ED to Wesleyan because I just visited it and fell in love with everything there. So yea, I'd really be interested in talking to anyone who has questions or just wants to chat so my AIM name is TheLadyNightMare. At this point I realize I've been rambling and perhaps I should attempt to get some work done. Adios!

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Monday, April 05, 2004 - 02:19 pm: Edit

Thanks Xmatt.

By Alpaca29 (Alpaca29) on Tuesday, April 06, 2004 - 10:40 pm: Edit

Hi guys. I have the same question as Dizzyizzy75. I was waitlisted from Wes but I'd really like to get in because it's the only one of the 3 out of state universities I wasn't rejected from and California is kinda going down the hole with public education :/.

Also, how are financial aid packages? I didn't get anything from my other schools, again California budget cuts.

Thanks .

By Confetti (Confetti) on Wednesday, April 07, 2004 - 05:42 pm: Edit

hey guys, i just got home (i've been away since april 1st).

anyway, I GOT IN!
just thought i'd join in!

By Bjturlington (Bjturlington) on Wednesday, April 07, 2004 - 07:36 pm: Edit

Congrats Confetti!

Rob.

By Confetti (Confetti) on Wednesday, April 07, 2004 - 08:59 pm: Edit

oh, did the director of admissions write, "yes!" above the signature? i thought that was cute and random.

and so sorry bjturlington i wish you so much luck! <3

By Xmatt (Xmatt) on Wednesday, April 07, 2004 - 11:39 pm: Edit

She wrote that on mine (last year). The admissions people are all really cool at Wes (I know some of them, I'm a tour guide).

Anyway, congrats Confetti. Do you think you're going to enroll? I will confess to having read your profile along with the other Wesleyan people's on prstats (hey, I run the site, I'm entitled, right?)

So yeah. If you have questions or whatever, feel free to drop me an IM (xmattus01).

By Confetti (Confetti) on Thursday, April 08, 2004 - 01:20 am: Edit

hey xmatt-- after thoroughly going through wesleyan's admitted students site, i definitely can tell that Wes is pretty chill. On the listserv, I mentioned that my favorite band was The Pixies, and one of the assistant (or was it associate?) directors of admission piped in to say that The Pixies is a great band. Too awesome.

And I always wanted to tell you that I think you are amazing for undertaking a site like that. Oh and I read your lj. Oh and I'm really not a stalker. At all. haha. Just a bit neurotic about all this college stuff.

Right now, I'm pretty torn between Tufts and Wesleyan. I keep getting pushed and pulled back and forth between the two. I'm going to attend Wesfest and Tufts's Open House. Maybe attending those events will make this decision easier.

And I will probably drop you an IM. haha.

Thanks again for being so kind and helpful!