What we like about reading applications

It's no secret that I love reading admission files.  It is my favorite part of the job and I have even tried (only half joking) to convince colleagues to swap all their applications for all my regional travel.  No luck yet.  Problem is, everyone else likes it too.  I polled my colleagues, and here's what they had to say:

"I like putting my Nancy Drew skills to good use.  It's part sleuthing, part summarizing, at times spelunking and mostly storytelling.  I like a good story."
- Raissa Diamante

"I enjoy especially learning more about students than usually transpires during an earlier meeting (say a college fair or a school visit).  I also find it absolutely inspiring that a good number of our applicants have so much confidence, curiosity, compassion, intellect, and purpose.  We see a very nice slice of the American pie."
- Peter Osgood

"I like getting to make my own work schedule. I can sleep in a bit, enjoy my breakfast and morning coffee, and catch The View before settling in front of my laptop (covered in my purple Snuggie) for hours of app reading!"
- Jamilla Jamison

"I hate reading files.  Seriously, can't we go for a walk already?"
- Louis N. Smith (Colleen's dog)