Can Someone Go Over My Common App With Me? (And Other Common App Confessions)
Ah, the Common App. That glorious, yet terrifying, portal to your future. You’ve painstakingly crafted your essays, poured your heart and soul into your extracurriculars, and meticulously researched your dream schools. Now, you’re staring at the “Submit” button, wondering if your application is truly ready for the college admissions gods.
(Cue the dramatic music)
And that’s where the question arises: Can someone go over my Common App with me?
The answer, my friend, is a resounding YES! But let’s unpack this a bit, shall we?
Why You NEED a Second Pair of Eyes
Think of the Common App as your meticulously crafted masterpiece. You’ve labored over every brushstroke, every detail. But even the greatest artists have their trusted critics. They offer fresh perspectives, spot the flaws you might miss, and help you refine your work.
That’s exactly what a second set of eyes does for your Common App.
Here’s why you need someone to take a look:
- Fresh Perspective: You’ve been staring at your application for hours (maybe days!), and you’re starting to see what you want to see, not what’s actually there. A friend, family member, teacher, or college counselor can offer a fresh perspective, spotting typos, inconsistencies, and weaknesses you may have overlooked.
- Objective Feedback: Your mom might think your essay is the most beautiful thing ever written, but is it truly compelling to a college admissions officer? A friend who knows you well, but also knows the college world, can offer honest and objective feedback.
- Grammar & Style: Even the most eloquent writer can make a grammatical slip-up or fall into a repetitive writing style. A sharp eye for detail can help you polish your application and ensure it’s free of errors.
- Clarity & Conciseness: Remember, your goal is to make a strong impression. That means getting your point across clearly and concisely, leaving no room for confusion. A second pair of eyes can help you streamline your application, cutting out unnecessary fluff and redundancies.
- Common App Etiquette: There are subtle nuances to the Common App, like ensuring your GPA, test scores, and other details are accurate and presented in a clear and concise manner. A seasoned navigator of the Common App can help you navigate these tricky waters.
Who’s the Right Person for the Job?
Now, you might be thinking: “Great, I need a Common App critique! But who do I ask?”
Here’s the thing: Not everyone is equipped to give you the feedback you need.
Consider these factors:
- Familiarity with College Admissions: You don’t want someone who’s never applied to college themselves offering advice. Look for someone who understands the admissions process, knows what colleges look for, and has experience reviewing applications.
- Objectivity: While your best friend might be supportive, their feedback might be biased. Aim for someone who can give you honest, constructive criticism, even if it’s not always what you want to hear.
- Writing Skills: You want someone who can spot grammatical errors, identify awkward phrasing, and help you refine your writing style.
Ideal Candidates:
- College Counselors: These professionals know the college admissions landscape inside and out. They’ve seen countless applications and can offer invaluable guidance.
- Teachers: A teacher who knows you well, particularly in your strongest subjects, can provide valuable insights into your academic achievements and potential.
- Family Members or Friends with College Experience: A sibling, cousin, or friend who has recently gone through the college application process can offer personal insights and advice.
The “Don’t” List:
Now, let’s talk about the people you shouldn’t ask to review your Common App:
- Your High School Best Friend: While their support and encouragement are always appreciated, their feedback might not be the most objective. After all, they’ve probably known you since you were in diapers!
- Your Mom (or Dad): Their love for you is undeniable, but they might not be the best judges of your application. They’ve probably already read your essay a million times and their feedback might be skewed by their parental bias.
- The Guy Who Just Got Rejected From Every College He Applied To: It’s best to avoid getting advice from someone who’s still reeling from their own college application experience. They might not be in the best frame of mind to offer constructive feedback.
Navigating the Ethical Minefield
Here’s where things get interesting. You’re allowed to get help on your Common App, but there are ethical lines you don’t want to cross.
The Big No-No:
Don’t Share Your Application with Anyone Before You Submit It!
Seriously, don’t do it! You wouldn’t want someone else submitting your application for you. It’s a major ethical violation and could get you into serious trouble.
But what about getting help with your essays?
That’s a bit of a gray area. You can absolutely brainstorm ideas, get feedback on your writing style, and even ask for help with proofreading. But here’s the crucial difference:
- You must be the author of your essay. It should reflect your own voice, your own experiences, and your own perspective.
- Don’t let someone else write your essay for you. This is a huge red flag that could even lead to your application being revoked.
The Bottom Line:
Get help, but get it ethically. Find someone who can offer constructive feedback without crossing any lines.
Remember: The Common App is your journey. It’s yours to navigate, and your application should be a true reflection of who you are.
And if you’re still feeling lost in the Common App labyrinth, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at JobLoving! We’re here to guide you through the process with a smile (and maybe a few sarcastic jokes along the way).