I know usually you should never use contractions in any formal writing, but I think it would seem a little less robotic and more humanizing if I let up a little bit on that.
Like for example, here's my first sentence:
"I'd like to start off by thanking you for considering me as a potential candidate for admission for the upcoming fall semester."
Will it be acceptable to use a few contractions here and there?
Am I worrying way too much about this? If I am it's just because I really, really want to get into this college. Being on the wait list is killing me!
2007-03-28 11:30:21 · 8 answers · asked by m-cha 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Contractions, as a whole, should generally be used for more informal writing. Your college admissions letter should be far from this casual so I would recommend that you steer clear of contractions, in this situation.
I do think that following up with the admissions officer is an excellent idea ... this will show enthusiasm and interest on your part to get into your desired program.
Oh yes! I'm with "kvh" with her suggestion to just lead with the sentence, "Thank you for considering ..." (it's stronger and less "klunky").
2007-03-28 11:42:51 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Avoid starting your sentences with "I"s. Example: Thank you for considering me as a candidate for admission in the upcoming fall semester.
Contractions often sound more appropriate than spelling every word out and you are correct, that it is a little more humanizing.
You will have to judge your writing - just rewrite until you are satisfied with the tone.
Good Luck.
2007-03-28 12:35:34 · answer #2 · answered by Pacifica 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do not use contractions, but also do not lead with thanking them for considering you, if you want to be different. You should begin with something that let's them know how you feel about their institution. It would be an attention grabber without being outrageous.
Do a little homework on the University and begin your introductory paragraph with the things that make you want to be a member of their student body. Save your thank you's until the end of the letter.
2007-03-28 12:05:49 · answer #3 · answered by Steve T. 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No it is not professional. Do not use contractions in a letter to a college admissions officer. But I do agree with you.
2007-03-28 11:34:49 · answer #4 · answered by beautifuldisaster 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd avoid them as much as possible. I'd also avoid saying that first part "I'd like to start off by" and just say "thank you for considering me as a potential candidate for admission".....
2007-03-28 11:33:49 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No. It's not professional. It won't sound robotic, it'll sound good and impressive.
E-mail me your letter and I'll edit it for you if you like. I am in the top 5% of my college writing class, and am taking it a year early, in high school.
2007-03-28 14:17:00 · answer #6 · answered by Liz 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would not, seriously, it sounds/looks unprofessional in writing.
2007-03-28 12:12:46 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
no spell them out and good luck
2007-03-28 11:33:50 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋