How To Add Recommenders On Common App

The Common App Recommender Conundrum: A Guide to Navigating the Labyrinth of Recommendations

Ah, the Common App. It’s a digital beast that every college applicant must tame, a digital jungle where you must navigate a confusing maze of forms, essays, and yes, recommenders. If you’re like most applicants, you’re probably wondering, “How do I add these recommenders without losing my sanity?” Fear not, my fellow applicant, for I, your resident Common App guru, am here to guide you through the treacherous terrain of recommenders.

Let’s start with the basics:

• Why do I need recommenders? College admissions committees want to hear more than just your side of the story. They want to know how others perceive you, how you interact in a classroom setting, and what kind of contributions you’ll make to their hallowed halls. Think of it as a character reference, but with more paperwork.
• Who should I ask? The ideal recommendation comes from someone who knows you well and can speak to your academic abilities, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. It’s generally a good idea to choose teachers who you’ve had for at least one year and who have seen you shine in their classes. And remember, don’t ask your grandma to write a recommendation, no matter how much she loves you.
• How do I add them? This is where things get a bit tricky, but fear not, I’ve got you covered.

Adding Recommenders on Common App: A Step-by-Step Guide (That Won’t Make You Pull Your Hair Out)

1. Log into your Common App account. This is your control center for all things college application. You’ll see all the colleges you’ve added, your submitted essays, and of course, the dreaded “Recommenders” section.
2. Navigate to the “Recommenders and FERPA” section. It might be hiding under the “My Colleges” tab or a similar location. Think of it as the secret lair where you summon your recommendation warriors.
3. Click “Request Recommendation.” There are usually two options: “Academic” (think teachers) and “General” (think counselors or mentors). It’s not a choose-your-own-adventure game, so pick the one that fits your needs.
4. Enter your recommender’s name or email address. This is where you unleash the power of digital sorcery. The Common App will automatically send an email to your chosen recommender, inviting them to submit their glowing endorsement of your awesomeness.
5. Don’t forget about the “FERPA” part. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) is like the big, scary, but necessary security guard at the school gates. It basically says that you need to give your recommenders permission to view your academic records. Make sure you check the box that allows them to do so.

Updating Recommender Info: “Oops, I Did It Again” (But It’s Okay)

Let’s face it, sometimes we make mistakes. Maybe you accidentally entered the wrong email address, or your recommender suddenly decided to move to a remote island in the South Pacific. Fear not! The Common App allows you to update your recommender information with the grace and finesse of a seasoned pro.

1. Log back into your Common App account. You’re back in the command center, ready to right your wrong.
2. Head over to the “Recommenders and FERPA” section. Familiarity breeds… well, not necessarily confidence, but at least you know where to go.
3. Find the recommender you need to update. It’s like searching for a lost sock in your laundry basket (except less frustrating, hopefully).
4. Click on their name. This will take you to their profile, where you can edit their email address, contact information, or anything else that needs a little tweaking.
5. Save your changes. You’re done! Your recommender’s information is updated, and you can breathe a sigh of relief.

The Big Question: Should I Invite Recommenders?

This is where things get a little philosophical. Some colleges allow you to add recommendations, but they don’t require them. It’s like a buffet: you can take as much as you want, but you’re not obligated to stuff yourself silly.

Think about it this way:

• If you have a recommender who can truly shed light on your abilities and potential, then absolutely invite them. Their insights will be invaluable to your application.
• If you’re unsure about a recommender, or if you don’t think their recommendation will be particularly strong, it’s okay to skip them. Remember, quality over quantity.

A Word About Counselors:

Your school counselor is like the person who holds all the keys to the academic kingdom. They know your transcript, your grades, and your extracurricular activities better than anyone. However, they might be swamped with other students, so be sure to give them plenty of time to write your recommendation. And remember, you can always exclude a counselor from your application if necessary.

The Final Word:

Adding recommenders on the Common App is like a dance: it requires a little patience, a lot of communication, and a dash of strategic planning. Remember, the goal is to tell your story in the most compelling way possible. If you’re still feeling lost in the Common App labyrinth, don’t despair! JobLoving community can help you navigate the treacherous paths and find the perfect recommenders to help you conquer your college dreams.