Many schools offer events that give candidates the opportunity to meet alumni, whether it’s through email, skype or in-person events like coffee chats. Building an early connection with your dream school’s network is a great way to demonstrate your earnestness to matriculate to an AdCom.
During your chat, be sure to describe your short and long-term career goals, and to ask for recommendation on classes, events, clubs and other school resources. Later, when you compose your admissions essays, you’ll be able to mention these recommendations, proving that you made the extra effort to build connections. Bringing up specific school resources also serves a double purpose of showing that the program is the best fit for your career needs.