How Do Teachers Write Common App LORs? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not Magic)
So you’re applying to college, which basically means you’re about to embark on a wild journey of stress-induced insomnia, caffeine-fueled all-nighters, and existential crises disguised as “college essays.” One of the key components of this glorious experience is the dreaded Common App, a digital beast that demands your soul (or at least your personal information and a hefty application fee). But amidst the application forms and essays, there’s a hidden player: the teacher recommendation.
The Common App’s Recommendation Game
Now, you might be thinking, “How do teachers write these things? Do they have secret formulas? Do they consult with ancient oracles?” Well, relax, my friend. The secret is much less mystical and more grounded in reality. Teachers, those unsung heroes of the education system, actually use their knowledge and experience to craft those letters of recommendation. Shocking, I know!
But Seriously, How Do They Do It?
The Common App makes it relatively simple. You ask your teacher to recommend you, they get a link, they click it, and they write the letter. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy, right?
But here’s the catch: While the process is straightforward, the content of the letter is where the magic (or lack thereof) lies. Teachers are expected to provide a “honest appraisal of a student’s academic performance and intellectual promise.” They’re basically the college admissions officers’ secret spies, offering intel on your academic prowess.
Think of it like this:
- You: The applicant, the protagonist of your own college application saga.
- Teacher: The wise mentor, the Gandalf of your academic journey.
- College: The mysterious land of higher learning, waiting to be conquered.
The teacher’s letter is like a character reference, a whispered testament to your skills and potential. They’re not just writing about your grades (though those are important, of course). They’re painting a picture of your intellectual curiosity, your work ethic, your ability to engage in critical thinking – all the qualities that make you a desirable candidate for college.
The Common App’s Recommendation Guide
The Common App provides a handy guide for teachers, outlining the information they should include in their letters. It’s essentially a blueprint for crafting the perfect recommendation, emphasizing the following:
- Academic Strengths: Highlight your strong subjects, your ability to grasp concepts quickly, your dedication to learning. Basically, showcase your intellectual brilliance (or at least your dedication to not failing).
- Classroom Participation: Describe your active engagement in class, your contributions to discussions, and your ability to think critically (even if your contributions were limited to asking the occasional question about the meaning of life).
- Extracurricular Involvement: Share how your extracurricular activities demonstrate your leadership, teamwork, and dedication (even if those activities involved endless hours of playing video games, because, you know, those require strategic thinking and hand-eye coordination).
- Personal Qualities: Mention your positive personality traits, your work ethic, your resilience (even if you’re known for your tendency to procrastinate until the last minute).
Key Points to Remember
- Specificity is key: Don’t just write a generic letter that could apply to anyone. Tailor it to your specific strengths and experiences.
- Be honest: A teacher’s recommendation should be genuine, reflecting their true opinion of you. Don’t expect them to lie or embellish things just to get you into your dream college.
- Don’t stress: The teacher’s recommendation is just one piece of the puzzle. Focus on your own application, and let your teachers do their job.
The Big Picture
The common app teacher recommendation is essentially a snapshot of your academic journey, a glimpse into the student you’ve become under the guidance of your teacher. It’s an opportunity to showcase your strengths, your potential, and your eagerness to learn. So, relax, breathe, and trust your teachers to do their thing. They’ve seen you evolve from that freshman to this almost-college-student, and they’re there to help you navigate the wild world of college applications.
Need More Help?
If you need further guidance on how to navigate the Common App recommendation process, or if you’re struggling with any other aspect of the college application journey, reach out to the JobLoving community! We’re here to help you navigate the treacherous waters of higher education and emerge victorious (or at least with a college acceptance letter!).