The Art of Following Up: A Strategic Guide to Contacting Stanford GSB Without Appearing Desperate

When you apply to the prestigious Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB), it's crucial to follow up with the admissions office in a strategic manner. However, the art lies in striking the right balance to express your continued interest without appearing desperate. This guide provides you with the best practices and tips to navigate this delicate process.

Why Following Up Matters

Following up is an essential part of the application process, especially for highly competitive programs like Stanford GSB. It signifies your continued interest and commitment to the program. A well-crafted follow-up message can positively impact the admissions committee's perception of your candidacy.

Understanding the Timing

The timing of your follow-up is critical. Waiting too long can make you appear impatient, while following up too soon might be seen as insincere. Here’s a recommended timeline:

Initial Follow-Up: Send a gentle reminder via email around the deadline plus a week or two. This signal shows that you're respectful of their timeline and have been eagerly awaiting a response.

Second Follow-Up: If you haven't heard back after a reasonable period, it’s okay to send another message. This should be done around 4-6 weeks after the initial application deadline.

Third Follow-Up: After sending two polite follow-ups with no response, it's advisable to take a break. Being proactive yet patient is key. You can reach out again in a month or so to show that your interest remains strong but not overwhelming.

Strategies for Effective Follow-Ups

Your follow-up messages should be concise, professional, and demonstrate genuine interest in the program. Here are some best practices:

Compose a Thoughtful Email

A short but heartfelt email can make a big difference. Here’s how to craft an effective follow-up message:

Hello Admissions Team,I am writing to express my continued interest in the Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) PhD program. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to your esteemed faculty's research and to be a part of such a vibrant and academically rigorous community.I understand the thorough review process you are engaged in and I appreciate your time and effort towards finalizing the decisions. While I eagerly await your decision, I am also prepared to await it with  you for your continued ,[Your Name]

Avoid Desperate Language

Avoid using language that might come across as desperate or pushy. Instead, focus on positive and encouraging words that demonstrate your enthusiasm:

Use phrases like "continue to consider" or "remain dedicated to" rather than "desperately waiting for" or "extremely anxious."

Express gratitude for their time rather than expressing urgency.

Avoid making it sound like you are the only candidate and need this acceptance.

Showcase Your Value

Highlight any relevant achievements, skills, or experiences that have come to your attention since submitting your application. This shows that you are proactive and continue to grow, but do it in a respectful and professional manner:

Additionally, I would like to share that I have recently presented my research on [topic] at the [conference], which I believe aligns well with the direction of your  you once again for your attention, and I look forward to learning of your ,[Your Name]

Additional Tips

While email is the primary method, here are some additional tips to ensure a successful follow-up process:

Be Patient: Understand that the admissions committee is handling many applications and may be conservative in their decision process.

Stay Positive: Maintain a positive and accommodating attitude throughout the process.

Professionalism: Use a professional tone and format in all your communications.

Timing: Avoid over-reach. Respect their timeline and process.

Conclusion

Following up is a delicate art. By sending a thoughtful, professional, and respectful follow-up message, you can maintain a positive presence in the eyes of the admissions office without appearing too eager or desperate. Remember, persistence and patience are key to a successful follow-up strategy.

For more guidance and tips on navigating the Stanford GSB application process, please visit the university's official website or reach out to the admissions office directly.