How To Write a Standout Dartmouth Peer Recommendation
Writing a peer recommendation for a Dartmouth applicant is a significant responsibility. It’s an opportunity to offer a unique perspective on a candidate, providing Dartmouth’s admissions committee with insights they might not glean from other application materials. This guide provides comprehensive advice on crafting a compelling and effective recommendation that truly helps your nominee shine. Let’s get started.
Understanding the Purpose of a Dartmouth Peer Recommendation
Before you begin, it’s crucial to grasp the core purpose of this recommendation. Dartmouth admissions seeks to understand the applicant’s character, contributions, and potential for success within the Dartmouth community. They want to know how the applicant interacts with others, their intellectual curiosity, and their overall suitability for the rigorous academic and vibrant social environment at Dartmouth College. Your recommendation should aim to illustrate these aspects.
Gathering Information: The Foundation of a Great Recommendation
A strong recommendation is built on a solid foundation of information. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the applicant and gather relevant details. This is not only acceptable but encouraged. Ask them:
- What aspects of their personality or experiences do they feel are most important for you to highlight?
- What are their academic interests and aspirations?
- What activities or experiences have shaped them the most?
- What are their extracurricular involvements?
- What specific qualities do they believe make them a good fit for Dartmouth?
Also, recall your own experiences with the applicant. Think about specific instances that demonstrate their character, skills, and potential. Specificity is key. Vague statements are less impactful than concrete examples.
Tips for Effective Information Gathering
- Be proactive: Don’t wait for the applicant to contact you. Initiate the conversation.
- Ask open-ended questions: This encourages detailed responses.
- Take notes: Documenting your conversations and observations will help you write a more comprehensive recommendation.
- Review their resume and essays: This will give you additional context and insight.
Structuring Your Dartmouth Peer Recommendation Letter
A well-structured recommendation is easy to read and allows the admissions committee to quickly grasp the applicant’s strengths. Here’s a suggested structure:
Opening Paragraph: Establishing Your Relationship and Setting the Tone
Start by clearly stating your relationship to the applicant (e.g., “I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Duration] as a [Your Relationship – e.g., classmate, teammate, friend]”). Briefly explain the context of your relationship and why you are qualified to comment on their abilities and character. Express your enthusiasm for recommending the applicant.
Body Paragraphs: Showcasing Key Qualities with Specific Examples
This is the heart of your recommendation. Focus on a few key qualities or characteristics that the applicant embodies. For each quality, provide specific, compelling examples that illustrate it. Consider highlighting qualities like:
- Intellectual Curiosity: Demonstrating a love of learning, a willingness to explore new ideas, and a commitment to academic excellence.
- Leadership Potential: Highlighting instances where the applicant took initiative, motivated others, and demonstrated effective leadership skills.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Showcasing the applicant’s ability to work effectively with others, contribute to group projects, and build positive relationships.
- Resilience and Perseverance: Illustrating how the applicant has overcome challenges, learned from failures, and demonstrated determination.
- Impact on the Community: Highlighting their positive contributions to their school, community, or other organizations.
Concluding Paragraph: Reinforcing Your Support and Offering a Strong Recommendation
Summarize the applicant’s most compelling qualities. Reiterate your strong support for their application to Dartmouth. Express your confidence that they will thrive in the Dartmouth environment.
Choosing the Right Tone and Language for Your Recommendation
Your writing style should be authentic and reflect your genuine assessment of the applicant. Here are some important considerations:
Authenticity and Sincerity
Avoid generic praise. Be honest and genuine in your assessment. Let your personality and voice shine through.
Avoiding Overly Positive or Negative Language
While you want to highlight the applicant’s strengths, avoid hyperbole or exaggerations. Similarly, avoid overly negative criticism. Focus on constructive feedback and areas for growth.
Using Vivid and Descriptive Language
Use descriptive language to bring your examples to life. Paint a picture for the admissions committee. Avoid using overly formal or jargon-filled language.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Dartmouth Peer Recommendations
Several common mistakes can weaken a recommendation. Be mindful of these pitfalls:
Generic or Vague Statements
Avoid making sweeping generalizations without providing concrete evidence.
Focusing Solely on Academics
While academic performance is important, Dartmouth admissions also values character, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities.
Repeating Information from Other Sources
Focus on providing unique insights and perspectives that complement the applicant’s other application materials.
Being Dishonest or Exaggerating
Integrity is crucial. Your recommendation should be truthful and accurate.
Specific Examples: Illustrating Key Qualities
Let’s explore some examples of how to illustrate specific qualities with concrete examples:
Example 1: Demonstrating Intellectual Curiosity
Instead of: “John is a curious student.”
Try: “In our AP Physics class, John consistently asked insightful questions that pushed our understanding beyond the textbook. He independently researched [Specific Topic] and presented his findings to the class, demonstrating a genuine passion for the subject and a desire to delve deeper.”
Example 2: Highlighting Leadership Potential
Instead of: “Sarah is a good leader.”
Try: “As captain of the debate team, Sarah fostered a collaborative and supportive environment. She mentored younger members, organized practice sessions, and led the team to victory at the regional competition, all while demonstrating excellent communication and problem-solving skills.”
How to Submit Your Dartmouth Peer Recommendation
Familiarize yourself with Dartmouth’s specific submission guidelines. Typically, recommendations are submitted electronically through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. The application portal will provide clear instructions. Adhere to all deadlines and submission requirements. Ensure your letter is formatted correctly and uploaded properly. Double-check for any errors before submitting.
FAQs: Addressing Common Concerns About Peer Recommendations
Here are some frequently asked questions about writing Dartmouth peer recommendations:
Is it okay to mention the applicant’s weaknesses?
Yes, but approach this with care. Focus on areas where the applicant has shown growth and a willingness to learn. Frame any weaknesses in a constructive light, highlighting their ability to overcome challenges.
What if I don’t know the applicant very well?
If you don’t have extensive knowledge of the applicant, it’s best to be honest about the limitations of your perspective. Focus on the specific interactions you’ve had and the qualities you’ve observed.
How long should my recommendation be?
Dartmouth doesn’t typically impose a strict word count, but aim for a length that allows you to thoroughly address the applicant’s strengths and provide meaningful examples. A well-written letter of 300-500 words is usually sufficient.
Can I see the recommendation before it’s submitted?
Generally, the recommendation is confidential. You should not share the letter with the applicant before submission.
What if I’m not a strong writer?
Focus on providing clear, concise, and specific examples. Even if you are not a gifted writer, your genuine assessment and compelling examples will be more impactful than perfect prose.
The Importance of a Thoughtful Recommendation
Writing a Dartmouth peer recommendation is more than just fulfilling a requirement. It’s an opportunity to contribute to the admissions process and help shape the future of Dartmouth College. By providing a thoughtful, insightful, and well-written recommendation, you can play a vital role in helping a deserving applicant achieve their goals.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for a Successful Recommendation
In conclusion, writing a successful Dartmouth peer recommendation requires careful planning, thoughtful execution, and a genuine commitment to supporting the applicant. Remember to gather thorough information, structure your letter effectively, choose the right tone and language, and avoid common pitfalls. Focus on highlighting the applicant’s unique qualities and demonstrating their potential to thrive in the Dartmouth environment. By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling recommendation that truly helps your nominee stand out.