The Insider: College Admissions Advice from the Experts

I am so excited for the new Common Application (CA4)! I’ve been following all of the updates and attended the First Look webinar, and am looking forward to the August 1 rollout. Here are some of my favorite changes:

So much more goes into the college application than simply grades and test scores; recommendation letters from teachers can go a long way towards putting your best foot forward. But getting a great recommendation requires more than simply asking your favorite teacher for a favor; it requires thoughtful preparation and good follow-up. (College Coach shares why teacher recs are important and whom to ask in previous blogs).

Q: What is the role of the recommendation letter in the application process?

During this time of year, my meetings with juniors often begin with questions about next year’s coursework.  Families worry both about how much their student can handle and how colleges will view their curricular choices during the college selection process.  Jimmy can take 4 APs, but his Eagle Scout project will take up so much time after school.  He also wants to take the philosophy and world religion electives.  What should he pick?  Sarah wants to get into the State Engineering College, so should she take a lighter course load outside of math and physics to boost her GPA?