Most schools ask you to respond to some variation of the question "Why do you want to go to school here?" in the application.
The key to success when you answer this question is to be as specific as possible – show the admissions counselor reading your application that you’re not applying just for the heck of it.
What about the campus and the academic programs excites you? What campus groups exist that you’d like to be a part of? How does it match your passions and your personality?
Don’t just say "I look forward to participating in many activities on campus". Be specific. Do you want to play club volleyball? Or join the school’s yearbook staff?
Instead of saying "I know your school would provide me with many academic opportunities" do a little digging and find a program or course description you find most appealing.
Then you can say "I’d love the opportunity to study acting with (insert faculty member’s name here). I saw a play at my campus visit and its (insert specifics here) inspired me.
What’s that? You’ve never toured the campus? Never seen a play or sporting event there? Never checked out the campus’ student publications online to see what’s happening at the school?
What are you waiting for?
Take a weekend road trip. Carpool with friends (let a parent tag along if you must) and go visit the schools you’re interested in applying for.
Seeing the campus, taking a tour, asking questions in person at the admissions office will all give you a leg up in the admissions process and will help you decide if the campus is the right fit for you.
Join the "How to rock your admissions essay" group