Does Common App Count Your Counselor as Another Recommender? (The Answer Might Surprise You!)
The Common App, that glorious beast of college applications, can be a confusing maze of forms, essays, and recommendations. One question that frequently pops up is, “Does Common App count my counselor as another recommender?”
(Spoiler alert: The answer is a little more nuanced than a simple yes or no.)
The Short Answer: No, the Common App doesn’t consider your counselor as a separate “other” recommender. Your counselor’s recommendation is a distinct, required section of the application, separate from the “other” recommender category.
But hold on, let’s break down this weird situation.
Think of it this way: Your counselor’s recommendation is like the official school seal of approval. It’s a must-have, like the “I’m not a robot” checkbox you desperately click on websites. It provides colleges with the school’s perspective on your academic performance and overall character.
On the other hand, the “other” recommender is your chance to showcase a different side of yourself. It’s like having a friend vouch for your awesome skills in, say, underwater basket weaving. This recommender can be a teacher, coach, employer, or anyone who can offer a unique perspective on your talents and personality.
Here’s the thing: The Common App allows you to request a maximum of one “other” recommender in addition to your counselor and teacher recommendations.
So, does that mean you’re stuck with just one friend to sing your praises? Not necessarily!
Don’t Fear the “Other” Recommender: The Power of Strategic Choice
The Common App, in its infinite wisdom, lets you get creative with your “other” recommender. You can choose someone who can highlight something your counselor or teachers might not, such as:
- Arts Teacher: Show off your artistic side and let them gush about your talent.
- Clergy: Highlight your community involvement and moral compass.
- Coach: Showcase your leadership skills and dedication.
- College Access Counselor: Let them speak to your college aspirations and commitment to academics.
- Employer: Prove you’re a responsible and hardworking employee.
- Family Member: Get an honest perspective on your personal growth and quirks (just make sure they’re not too honest).
- Peer: Have a friend highlight your collaborative spirit and positive impact on others.
The Key is Balance: Remember, the “other” recommender is just that – other. It’s not meant to replace your counselor or teacher’s recommendations. Think of it as a bonus round, a chance to add an extra dimension to your application.
So, what if you want to include your counselor as an “other” recommender? Well, that’s where things get interesting.
The Counselor as a Double Agent: A Risky Move?
Technically, there’s no rule stopping you from inviting your counselor to submit an additional recommendation under the “other” category. But here’s the catch:
- It might seem redundant. Colleges might wonder why your counselor is sending two separate recommendations.
- It might overload your counselor. They might be swamped with recommendations and deadlines, making it difficult to write two detailed letters.
- It might create confusion. Colleges might not understand the purpose of two separate recommendations from the same person.
Instead of risking it, consider these alternatives:
- Talk to your counselor: Ask if they’re willing to submit a more detailed recommendation that covers both academic and extracurricular aspects.
- Focus on your other recommendations: Make sure your teacher and “other” recommender offer unique perspectives.
- Highlight your counselor’s recommendation in your application: Use the “Counselor Recommendation” section to showcase your counselor’s positive comments about your academic performance, character, and goals.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to request another recommendation from your counselor is up to you. Consider your strengths, your counselor’s workload, and the specific requirements of the colleges you’re applying to.
Remember, the Common App is a journey, not a race. Take your time, choose your recommenders wisely, and let your personality shine through.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!
Need Help Navigating the Common App Maze?
If you’re still feeling lost in the labyrinth of college applications, don’t fret! We’re here to help you find your way. Join the JobLoving community, where you can connect with fellow college hopefuls and experienced mentors. We can help you decode the Common App, strategize your recommendations, and conquer your college application journey with confidence.
Together, we can make the college application process less stressful and more successful.