What is a Teacher Evaluation on the Common App? (And Why It’s Not a Simple “Thumbs Up”)
So, you’re about to embark on the grand adventure that is college applications. You’ve got your essays polished, your extracurriculars listed, and your test scores gleaming like a freshly-waxed car. But there’s one crucial piece of the puzzle that can make or break your chances: the teacher evaluation.
Hold on, what the heck IS a teacher evaluation?
Think of it as a secret decoder ring for college admissions officers. It’s a form filled out by your chosen teacher, providing a glimpse into your academic potential beyond your grades. It’s like when you’re trying to decide which cookie to pick from a plate – you might go for the one that looks the most delicious, but then you peek at the label and see it’s actually full of mystery ingredients (aka, you might be allergic!). The teacher evaluation is like that label, giving colleges a more nuanced understanding of who you are as a student and what you bring to the table.
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.
The Common App Teacher Evaluation is more than just a box to tick. It’s a window into your academic life. It’s where your teacher spills all the tea on your:
- Academic Performance: Think of this as the “Did this student understand the Pythagorean Theorem?” section. Your teacher will rate your academic abilities, highlighting your strengths and maybe even mentioning areas where you need a little more practice (don’t worry, we all have them!).
- Engagement: This isn’t just about how often you raised your hand in class (though, that’s definitely a factor!). It’s about your overall participation, how you tackled challenges, and whether you were a positive force in the classroom. Your teacher might mention how you sparked lively debates or were a supportive classmate.
- Character and Skills: This is where your teacher gets to showcase your “soft” skills – things like your work ethic, communication skills, and critical thinking abilities. They might mention how you handled group projects, how you approached challenges, or how you interacted with your classmates. Remember, college isn’t just about academics – it’s about building a well-rounded individual.
But wait, isn’t this just a letter of recommendation?
Good question, and here’s where things get a little confusing. The teacher evaluation on the Common App is actually a combination of a letter of recommendation and a standardized evaluation form. Think of it like a combo meal – you get the juicy burger of a personalized letter and the crispy fries of a structured assessment!
Okay, but how does this actually work?
Your teacher will receive a notification via email from the Common App. They’ll then log in to the system and complete the form. It’s all electronic, so no more lost snail mail! The evaluation is then automatically sent to all the colleges you’ve listed on your Common App profile. That’s right, you only have to go through the process once. Sweet!
What about the “academic evaluation”?
This is another type of recommendation, but it’s specifically written by a teacher who has taught you in a challenging academic subject. It’s like a superhero origin story, telling the colleges about your academic journey and how you became the student you are today.
So, who should you ask to write your evaluation?
Go for teachers who know you well, both academically and personally. You want someone who can truly speak to your strengths and potential. Ideally, choose teachers from junior or senior year, as they’ve had the chance to observe you at your most mature and engaged.
Here’s a little insider tip:
Don’t be afraid to have a conversation with your chosen teacher before they submit the evaluation. Let them know what you’re hoping to highlight in your application and see if they have any advice. This shows initiative and can help ensure your evaluation is truly representative of your best self.
The Bottom Line:
The Common App Teacher Evaluation is a vital part of the college application process. It gives admissions committees a deeper look at your academic strengths, engagement, and personality. So, don’t treat it as just another form to fill out. Take the time to choose the right teacher, communicate with them clearly, and let them paint a compelling picture of who you are as a student.
Remember, the Common App teacher evaluation is a chance for you to shine. So, let your teachers show off your academic prowess and help you unlock the door to your dream college!
Need more help understanding the Common App Teacher Evaluation? Join the JobLoving community! We’re a bunch of college application veterans who are happy to share our wisdom and resources to help you navigate this crazy journey.