The Common App Recommender: One and Done? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not That Simple)
“Does a Common App recommender only write once?”
Ah, the age-old question that haunts the dreams of high school students everywhere. It’s a question that echoes through the halls of high school guidance offices, sending shivers down the spines of overworked teachers and counselors.
The Short Answer: They Write Once, But Use it Multiple Times.
The Common App, in its infinite wisdom, has decided that recommenders should write a single letter of recommendation that can be sent to multiple colleges.
Think of it like a multi-purpose letter of recommendation. It’s like a Swiss Army knife of college application documents – efficient, practical, and (hopefully) useful.
The Long Answer: It’s a Bit More Complicated Than That.
While it’s true that recommenders only write one letter and are not expected to write a separate letter for each college, there are some nuances to consider.
Here’s the deal:
- The recommender writes the letter once, but you, the student, get to choose which colleges receive it. It’s like having a recommendation buffet – you pick and choose which colleges get the “full-course” recommendation.
- Some colleges may require additional letters of recommendation. While the Common App might be happy with one letter, some schools might demand more. So, before you get too comfortable with the “one and done” approach, check the specific requirements for each college.
- The recommender might be asked to tailor their letter. Even though the recommender writes one letter, they might be asked to adjust it slightly based on the specific program or major you are applying to. Think of it as a “personalized” recommendation.
But Why, You Ask?
Why does the Common App operate this way?
- It’s easier for recommenders. They’re busy people, juggling a million things at once. Having a central platform where they can submit one letter and have it sent to multiple colleges is a godsend.
- It’s more efficient for students. Imagine having to chase down recommenders and nag them to write separate letters for each college you’re applying to. The Common App system streamlines the process, saving you time and headaches.
- It’s (hopefully) more equitable. Every student gets the same opportunity to have their recommendation sent to multiple colleges, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
The Common App Recommender: A Hero or a Villain?
The Common App recommender system is a double-edged sword. While it makes the process easier and more efficient, it can also lead to some challenges.
Here are some potential pitfalls:
- The “one and done” approach can lead to generic recommendations. If recommenders are writing the same letter for every student, it’s likely to be rather generic and not very personalized.
- Students might feel pressured to use the “one and done” approach. Some students might feel like they have to use the same recommender for all their colleges, even if they have other recommenders who might be better suited to write about them.
- The system can lead to recommenders feeling overwhelmed. With so many students applying to college, recommenders can feel like they’re drowning in recommendation requests.
What’s a student to do?
Here are some tips for navigating the Common App recommender system:
- Choose your recommenders wisely. Don’t just pick the first teachers or counselors who come to mind. Choose people who know you well and can write a strong, personalized recommendation.
- Communicate with your recommenders. Tell them about your goals, your interests, and the colleges you’re applying to. The more information they have, the better they can tailor their recommendation to your specific needs.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for additional recommendations. If a college requires additional letters, don’t hesitate to ask for them.
- Be patient with your recommenders. They’re probably juggling a lot of responsibilities, so give them ample time to write your recommendation.
The Bottom Line
The Common App recommender system is a necessary evil. It’s a system that requires a delicate balance between efficiency and personalization. With a little bit of planning and communication, you can make the most of this system and get the recommendations you need to get into your dream school.
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of Common App recommendations, don’t worry! Join our JobLoving community – we’ve got a team of experts who can help you navigate this challenging process.
Remember: You’re not alone in this. We’re all in this together!