Dear Northwestern University,

While I highly respect your School of Music, I am slightly put off by your automated responses. It's bad enough that I have yet to receive a confirmation for my upcoming audition. I've been working for hours without end to prepare for my auditions and it would be lovely if I had more than my cat to evaluate my skills.

SFCM, one of the best music conservatories in the country, sent me a lovely, personal message about confirming my audition for their admissions officer and a little thank you email after I sent the confirmation.

Now, I'm not asking for much. I don't want a seven-page letter on personalized stationary with a cute little doodle next to your signature. But is it so much to ask to know that I can get an audition? I might have a shot in hell for being accepted. I can live with that. But I want my shot.

Sincerely,
Anastacia