APPLICATION PROCESS

Your story matters! 

The College Essay is your chance to show YOUR voice.

The College Essay is the one part of your college application over which you have full freedom and control to display your personality. It is your opportunity to reveal your authentic self, showcasing your personality and character beyond your grades and academic curriculum.  It is an opportunity to have your voice heard by providing information not found elsewhere in your college application. 

Letters of recommendation are a critical part of the College admission process. By showing schools that you’re not just academically capable but a thoughtful, motivated, and resilient individual,  letters of recommendation are an essential part of the holistic review of college admissions. 

They provide a unique, personal perspective on your abilities, character, and potential beyond grades and test scores. These letters, written by teachers, counselors, or mentors, give colleges insight into who you are as a student and community member. A strong recommendation letter can make a huge difference for the college admission officers reviewing your application. 

To help guide you on the process of requesting letters from your teachers and counselors, follow this "Recommendation letter request tip sheet."

Providing your recommender with a brag sheet will help them highlight your achievements, strengths, and goals and write a more personalized and compelling letter on your behalf. 

Finally, this useful recommendation letter writing guide for teachers is meant to help recommenders write a compelling letter on your behalf.