connecticut river

Lee Coffin

Vice Provost for Enrollment & Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid
Lee Coffin

About 

Students think of a "Dean" as the signature on a decision letter, someone like the Wizard of Oz: an idea more than a person. Well, here I am, emerging from behind the proverbial curtain! My insights are informed by my background: I was a first generation college student and need-based financial aid opened my door to opportunity. I attended a large high school that sent few to selective colleges. Advice was thin. I was largely on my own. My blog helps me reach those of you in a similar place.

Academic Program 

B.A. History, Ed.M. Administration, Planning & Social Policy

Favorite Thing Right Now 

Serial

Hometown 

Shelton, Connecticut

Pronouns 

He/Him

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2.5 Admissions Tips from Our Dean

 Here's a deanly gift as you cross the Ts & dot the Is on your applications. 
  1. No. 1

    First: It's okay to brag about yourself. 

    lee hey

    Your application is your story. It's your way of introducing yourself to the colleges on your list, and the goal is to share your personal narrative in a confident, clear, and compelling way. Years from now, you'll do something similar as you apply for jobs and write a cover letter that accompanies your resume. What might feel like "bragging" is really your first opportunity to showcase your interests and talents to someone who does not know you.

  2. No. 2

    Second: the Dartmouth Writing Supplement helps us get to know you better.

    We can read your transcripts and your recommendations, but reading your supplemental essays helps us understand those intangibles that can't be easily reflected in a resume. We enjoy getting to know your sense of humor, your passion, your intellectual curiosity, your self-awareness, your social awareness, perhaps a mix of a few of these. Your writing helps us get to know you and we do read every word you choose. 

  3. No. 3

    The half: If you applied early somewhere, make sure you update your documents and remove the name of the early institution from the application you will send everywhere else.

    Remind your teachers, too.

    We hope you consider joining Dartmouth's next 250 years of intellectual discovery! 

Posted 12/9/2019 at 9:00 AMAll List Posts