How important is the counselor recommendation?

Hey there! I'm starting to compile stuff for my college application and it's feeling a bit overwhelming. What's the deal with the counselor recommendation? Is it something that colleges take a big interest in? If so, how can I make sure that my counselor writes a glowingly positive one? Looking forward to any advice or experiences you can share!

College applications can indeed feel overwhelming, but rest assured, everyone's in the same boat! As for your question on the importance of the counselor recommendation, it certainly holds significance in your application. This letter often provides context about your personal and academic performance in school, your level of involvement in school, and how you compare to your peers. Admissions officers use it to find out not just about your grades, but also about your character, resilience, and how you interact with the community.

To get a top-notch recommendation from your counselor, the key is to build a strong relationship with them. If your school isn't too big and you have the chance, drop by your counselor's office for a chat, discuss your interests, future plans, and anything else that might give them a good sense of your personality and aspirations. You could maybe even include some specific achievements or instances you'd like to be highlighted in their letter.

If you have a large school where personalized interaction with the counselor is rare, make sure you're proactive in communicating your interests, strengths, and activities on paper. Write a 'brag sheet' or a brief overview of your high school experiences that includes your extracurriculars, awards, volunteer experiences, as well as any challenges you've faced or projects you're proud of.

While this may seem like an extra task in your to-do list, remember that the more informed your counselor is about you, the more tailored and impactful their recommendation will be. Keep the lines of communication open, maintain respect for their time, and thank them for their effort. Good luck with your applications!