VOL. 23, NO. 16	FEBRUARY 27, 1998

or the seventh year in a row, applications to Barnard College have increased.

  While applications are still trickling in, Barnard’s office of admissions has already counted well over 3,800—a seven percent increase over last year.

  Altogether, Barnard has seen an 117 percent rise in applications since 1991.

  Early Decision applications have soared an identical 117 percent in the same period.

  This year, 272 students from around the world vied to get in early; 43 percent were accepted.

  Barnard began breaking its own record in numbers of applications five years ago—in 1993—and has been setting records ever since.

  “There’s a real sense of excitement about Barnard right now,” said President Judith Shapiro.

  “We not only see it in our recruitment numbers, but I also feel it when I travel throughout the country. And we intend to keep on working to ensure that Barnard remains the most sought-after women’s college in the country.”

  Barnard has 540 places for the Class of 2002.

  Doris Davis, dean of admissions—whose strategies and hard work have been central to Barnard’s recruitment success—says that the school’s exceptional academic reputation, its mission as a women’s college, location in New York City and affiliation with Columbia all play key roles in making Barnard a powerful draw for young women.