Should Your Teacher Proofread Your Common App Essay? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated)
The Common App is a digital beast. It’s the online behemoth that gobbles up your ambitions, dreams, and carefully crafted essays, spitting them out to the admissions offices of your chosen universities. And as you navigate this labyrinth of essays, recommendations, and application forms, one question might be swirling in your head: Should I let my teacher proofread my Common App essay?
The short answer? It’s not as straightforward as a “yes” or “no.” It’s more like a “maybe” with a sprinkle of “it depends.”
Think of it this way: Your Common App essay is your love letter to your dream college. You want it to be heartfelt, articulate, and free of any embarrassing typos that make you sound like you haven’t seen a dictionary since elementary school. But should you hand this love letter to your English teacher, the very person who’s seen your writing evolve from awkward freshman scribbles to, hopefully, something a bit more polished?
Let’s break down the pros and cons:
Why it might be a good idea:
- Expert Eyes: Teachers, especially those who teach writing, have a keen eye for grammar, structure, and clarity. They can sniff out a passive voice from a mile away and know exactly how to inject your writing with the right dose of pizzazz. Think of them as your personal writing ninjas, wielding the power of grammar and style to make your essay shine.
- Subject Matter Expertise: If you’re writing about your passion for astrophysics, a physics teacher might offer insights that go beyond the basic “good grammar, good job.” They can help you weave in scientific concepts, connect your experiences to the field, and make your essay intellectually stimulating for the admissions folks.
- Additional Feedback: Having another set of eyes review your essay can help you catch mistakes you might have missed. Your teacher can point out areas where your writing is unclear, confusing, or simply doesn’t flow as well as it could. They can also offer suggestions for improvement, helping you refine your essay and make it truly stand out.
Why it might not be the best idea:
- Privacy Concerns: Remember that your Common App essay is confidential. It’s for the eyes of the admissions officers, not your teachers. While it’s not illegal for you to share it with your teacher, it’s worth considering whether you want to share such a personal piece of writing with someone who might not be privy to all the details of your college application process.
- Teacher Overload: Teachers are busy people. They’re juggling lesson plans, grading papers, and trying to keep their sanity intact. Asking them to proofread your essay on top of everything else could feel like an unreasonable burden.
- Conflicting Opinions: You might be aiming for a certain tone or style in your essay, and your teacher might have a different vision for your writing. This can create a conflict of opinions, which could lead to frustration and stress for both of you. Imagine this scenario: You write a bold, humorous essay about your passion for competitive breakdancing, and your teacher, a seasoned Shakespeare scholar, recommends you tone down the humor and focus on the intellectual aspects of your dance. Ouch.
- Focus on the Common App, Not the Essay: While your essay matters, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Admissions officers look at your grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, and recommendations. Overly focusing on the essay might lead to neglecting other important aspects of your application.
What to do instead?
- Seek Guidance from Your School Counselor: Your counselor is a true champion of the college application process. They understand the intricacies of college admissions and can offer valuable insights into what admissions committees are looking for. They can also guide you on the best strategies for writing a compelling essay. Think of your counselor as your personal college application guru.
- Reach out to English Teachers or Other Educators: Don’t shy away from asking for help from other educators. If you have a particularly strong English teacher or a mentor who’s familiar with the college application process, they can offer valuable feedback and support.
- Don’t Forget the Power of Peer Review: Your classmates can be a valuable resource for feedback. Ask a friend or two to read your essay and offer their honest opinions. They can provide fresh perspectives and help you identify areas for improvement.
The Bottom Line: It’s Your Call
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to let your teacher proofread your Common App essay is yours. Consider the pros and cons, weigh your options, and choose what feels best for you.
Remember: While your teacher’s input can be valuable, it’s not a magic bullet. Your essay should be your own voice, reflecting your unique personality and experiences. So write with heart, get feedback from trusted sources, and make sure your essay is the best representation of you!
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the Common App labyrinth or need more guidance on the essay writing process, reach out to the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the college application process with confidence!