Why doesn't every school send decisions via e-mail? Forum

[j.wellington]

This is something that still annoys me about the application process. Every part of the process can be completed online, yet when it comes to sending out decisions, a large number of schools insist on using snail mail. Since I'm applying coast-to-coast and am running up against the decision deadlines, the extra time it'll take to receive my letter could end making a real difference. IUB even sent me confusing "congratulations once again" e-mails before I got their wasteful glossy packet, which contained no info I couldn't find on their web site.

Why do schools still use paper mail for decisions? Tradition? Dramatic effect?

[WWAD]

That's like e-mailing gift certificates for birthdays. The excitement is so much better when you have to wait and unwrap it. You only get to do it once, enjoy the inconvenience.

[finalaspects]

"they keep the postal service in business"

"they don't like change/too much work to switch to an all email system"

"they like to use the mail system as an excuse for the delay"

[Stryka]

"they keep the postal service in business"

"they don't like change/too much work to switch to an all email system"

"they like to use the mail system as an excuse for the delay"

Everything you said is an excuse to be lazy lol

[Stupendous_Man]

Maybe Law Schools are just rooted in tradition, and traditionally real paper letters are much more formal/official? I agree though, they really should save a tree and just email it to everyone, or even just allow you to check your status online like most undergrads. It would be easier for everyone involved to just do it online.

[hotdog123]

Law schools mirror the legal industry, a bloated, inefficient, ineffectual mess.

[Action Jackson]

That's like e-mailing gift certificates for birthdays. The excitement is so much better when you have to wait and unwrap it. You only get to do it once, enjoy the inconvenience.

+1

[skamike]

I would assume that having a hard copy of an acceptance letter is something many students want to keep. it just doesn't have the same prestige as an internet printout. The weight, seal, and (hopefully) authentic signature of the Dean all add to the prestige of the acceptance.

There is less of a reason, however, as to why they can't notify you by email that you've been accepted as they send out your formal letter.

[darknightbegins]

I would assume that having a hard copy of an acceptance letter is something many students want to keep. it just doesn't have the same prestige as an internet printout. The weight, seal, and (hopefully) authentic signature of the Dean all add to the prestige of the acceptance.

There is less of a reason, however, as to why they can't notify you by email that you've been accepted as they send out your formal letter.

What do you do with your acceptance letter that it needs to be so "special"? Do you put it on the frig? Do you frame it? Just wondering since it seems like its very important. Its just an acceptance letters, not a diploma. They should email acceptance letters.

[Unitas]

They should send letters for admits in addition to e-mails and they should e-mail waitlist and rejections right when decided.

Just because they should and could doesn't mean they will...

[MDPSteve]

That's like e-mailing gift certificates for birthdays. The excitement is so much better when you have to wait and unwrap it. You only get to do it once, enjoy the inconvenience.

Instead it's like receiving an envelope with a note saying I didn't get you anything...