Ask Stacy Blackman

Hi,

I have been admitted to a top 10 and WLed at a top 5. I would like to go to the top 5 the most, however, they could or could not take me off the WL before my deposit is due for the top 10 (one wave is before and one is after). How should I approach this? Just call the top 5 and as if they need more info (I have no updates from the time of my app) /express interest and wait until the deposit deadline at the top 10 to see if I hear from the top 5? Would it make sense to tell the top 5 that I have to make a decision by X date, or would that be seen as pushy? I could call now and not say anything (standard interest and updates) and then if I do not hear within a week of the other school's deadline, then call again and tell them I have to make a decision in a week, 10 days, etc. I am just unsure or how to handle a situation where you get into one school and want to wait to get off the waitlist for your top choice, but you might not hear from WL until the decision is due at your 2nd choice.

Any advice for people in this dilemma?

Thanks!