Many students reach out for advice and guidance during the arduous college application process. However, it might surprise you that sending a short note of gratitude might make a huge difference in the way you’re perceived by those who spent time helping you. Thank you notes can be sent most easily by email; however, you might also consider sending an actual letter or handwritten note by postal mail. Admissions officers may even place such correspondence in your files!

Let’s think about the people you should thank for their input during the college process:

1. Your guidance counselor, who most likely answered your interminable questions and who organized and sent required documents to your colleges through Naviance.
2. Your teachers who wrote letters of recommendations for you.
3. Other recommenders (coaches, club advisers, employers, creative arts teachers, family members, clergy, etc.)
4. College admissions officers who gave an information session at the college itself or your high school; who spoke with you during an interview or who answered questions during phone calls or through emails.
5. College students who functioned as your guides during tours of the campus and its facilities.
6. Family members or friends who provided you with information or suggestions about school choices.
7. Alumni who took the time to do interviews with you.
8. Your teachers or independent counselors who provided you with advice and suggestions about your applications and essays.
9. Your parents, who have helped you in more ways than you could count!

Need more advice? Read Five Important Tips About Writing Thank You Emails!