---
title: Rants, Raves, and Vents of College Admissions Officers
description: Gather a group of college admissions officers together, and they’ll be happy to share their pet peeves. Here are a few of our favorites.
image: https://www.collegeboundacademy.com/hubfs/frustrated%20college%20admissions%20officer.jpg
---

Gather a group of college admissions officers together, and they’ll be happy to share their pet peeves. Admissions essays are often the culprit for stories like these like a student getting into their love of one school while applying to a completely different school. [Dull essay topics](https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/application-essay-topics) can hurt an applicant’s chance of admission. Admission officers have read about every version possible of “The Big Game” or how grandparents and parents are their most influential people. 

Using a thesaurus too often to try to impress typically backfires. A 17-year-old should not sound like they’re in their forties. Not answering the essay prompt is a surefire to let the reader know you’ve attempted to substitute a generic college essay for what’s being asked. [Proofreading](https://ualr.edu/writingcenter/tips-for-effective-proofreading/) is so important; be sure to have multiple people look over your essay to make sure it conveys your message and to spot any errors.

“Helicopter” parents, or over-involved parents, can raise concerns. **YOU** are the one attending the school, so **YOU** should be the one contacting the admissions office. A favorite rant of admissions officers is the parent who says, “**We** are in the process of applying to your school.”

Awkward or inappropriate email addresses or voicemail messages, [questionable social media](https://www.collegedata.com/resources/getting-in/social-media-and-applying-to-college-what-you-need-to-know), etc. can raise admissions officer’s eyebrows. Be sure to remain professional when conversing with admissions officers over email and phone.

Even in-person [college visits](https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/slideshows/10-tips-for-an-effective-college-visit) have their rant-able moments. Refrain from wearing a college sweatshirt from College A when visiting College B. Stay engaged on your college tour or info session instead of constantly on your phone.