How To Write The Dartmouth Peer Recommendation: A Comprehensive Guide
Dartmouth College, like many top-tier universities, values the holistic review of its applicants. That means considering not just grades and test scores, but also the qualities of the person behind the application. A Dartmouth peer recommendation offers a unique lens through which the admissions committee can view a candidate. Writing a strong recommendation is a significant responsibility, and this guide will help you navigate the process effectively.
Understanding the Importance of the Dartmouth Peer Recommendation
The Dartmouth peer recommendation is more than just a formality. It provides the admissions committee with an independent perspective on an applicant’s character, contributions, and potential. It allows Dartmouth to gauge how an applicant interacts with peers, handles challenges, and contributes to a community. This information is especially valuable as Dartmouth prides itself on its close-knit community and collaborative environment. A well-written recommendation can significantly enhance an applicant’s chances of acceptance.
Who Should Write the Dartmouth Peer Recommendation?
The ideal recommender is someone who knows the applicant well and has observed them in a variety of settings. Consider these factors when selecting a recommender:
- Duration of acquaintance: How long have you known the applicant? A longer acquaintance allows for a more comprehensive understanding.
- Context of the relationship: Were you classmates, teammates, or involved in a shared extracurricular activity? The context provides valuable insights.
- Ability to articulate observations: Can the recommender clearly and concisely describe the applicant’s strengths and weaknesses?
- Authenticity: The recommender should be genuinely enthusiastic about the applicant and able to write with sincerity.
Gathering Information: Preparing to Write a Stellar Recommendation
Before you begin writing, gather as much information as possible about the applicant and their aspirations. This will allow you to provide a detailed and insightful recommendation. Here are some essential steps:
- Speak with the Applicant: Ask the applicant about their goals, interests, and experiences. What are they hoping to achieve at Dartmouth? What activities are they most passionate about?
- Review the Application: If possible, review the applicant’s personal essay, activities list, and other application materials. This will provide context and help you tailor your recommendation.
- Reflect on Your Experiences: Consider your own interactions with the applicant. What specific examples demonstrate their strengths, such as leadership, teamwork, or resilience?
- Consider the Dartmouth Values: Familiarize yourself with Dartmouth’s core values, such as intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to service.
Structuring Your Dartmouth Peer Recommendation: The Blueprint for Success
A well-structured recommendation is easy to read and highlights the applicant’s key qualities. Here’s a suggested structure:
Introduction: Establishing Your Relationship and Overall Impression
Start by introducing yourself and clarifying your relationship with the applicant. State your overall impression of the applicant in a sentence or two. This sets the stage for the rest of your recommendation.
Body Paragraphs: Providing Specific Examples and Supporting Evidence
This section is the heart of your recommendation. Provide specific examples that illustrate the applicant’s strengths and qualities. Focus on a few key areas, such as:
- Intellectual Curiosity: Does the applicant demonstrate a genuine interest in learning? Provide examples of their intellectual pursuits.
- Leadership and Initiative: Does the applicant take initiative and lead by example? Describe specific instances of their leadership.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: How does the applicant interact with others? Provide examples of their ability to work effectively in groups.
- Resilience and Perseverance: How does the applicant handle challenges and setbacks? Describe their ability to bounce back from adversity.
- Contributions to the Community: How does the applicant contribute to their school or community? Highlight their involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or other endeavors.
Conclusion: Summarizing and Offering a Strong Endorsement
Conclude by summarizing the applicant’s key qualities and offering a strong endorsement. Reiterate your belief in the applicant’s potential to succeed at Dartmouth. End with a clear and enthusiastic statement of support.
Key Qualities to Highlight in Your Recommendation
While every applicant is unique, certain qualities are highly valued by Dartmouth. Consider these areas when writing your recommendation:
- Intellectual Curiosity: Dartmouth seeks students who are passionate about learning and eager to explore new ideas.
- Leadership and Initiative: Dartmouth values students who take initiative and lead by example.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Dartmouth thrives on collaboration, so highlight the applicant’s ability to work effectively with others.
- Resilience and Perseverance: Dartmouth students face challenges, so demonstrate the applicant’s ability to overcome obstacles.
- Commitment to Community: Dartmouth values students who are involved in their community and contribute to the greater good.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Your Recommendation
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your recommendation is effective:
- Generic Statements: Avoid clichés and vague descriptions. Provide specific examples to support your claims.
- Negative Comments: Focus on the applicant’s strengths and avoid dwelling on their weaknesses.
- Exaggeration: Be honest and authentic. Avoid exaggerating the applicant’s accomplishments.
- Lack of Specificity: Avoid generalities. Provide concrete examples to illustrate the applicant’s qualities.
- Poor Grammar and Spelling: Proofread your recommendation carefully to ensure it is free of errors.
Tips for Crafting a Compelling Narrative
A strong recommendation tells a compelling story about the applicant. Here are some tips for crafting a compelling narrative:
- Use Anecdotes: Share specific stories and anecdotes that illustrate the applicant’s qualities.
- Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of simply stating that the applicant is a leader, describe a situation where they demonstrated leadership.
- Be Authentic: Write in your own voice and be genuine in your assessment of the applicant.
- Focus on the Applicant’s Personality: Highlight the applicant’s unique personality and character.
- Connect to Dartmouth’s Values: Show how the applicant embodies Dartmouth’s core values.
Formatting and Submission Guidelines
Adhere to any specific formatting or submission guidelines provided by Dartmouth. Typically, recommendations are submitted online through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. Ensure that your recommendation is:
- Clear and Concise: Use clear and concise language.
- Well-Organized: Follow a logical structure.
- Proofread Carefully: Check for any errors in grammar or spelling.
- Submitted on Time: Meet the application deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t know the applicant as well as other recommenders?
Even if your acquaintance is more limited, your perspective is still valuable. Focus on the interactions you have had and describe those experiences honestly and thoughtfully. Provide specific examples, even if they are relatively small in scope.
Can I contact the applicant for help?
While it’s generally acceptable to ask the applicant for basic information (like their goals or activities), avoid asking them to write the recommendation for you. The admissions committee values an independent assessment.
How long should my recommendation be?
Adhere to any length guidelines provided by Dartmouth. Typically, recommendations are expected to be 300-500 words, but focus on quality over quantity. A well-written, concise recommendation is better than a lengthy, rambling one.
Is it okay to mention the applicant’s weaknesses?
Generally, it’s best to focus on the applicant’s strengths. If you feel it’s necessary to mention a weakness, frame it in a way that demonstrates the applicant’s growth or ability to overcome challenges.
What if I’m not a strong writer?
Focus on clarity and providing specific examples. Even if your writing isn’t perfect, the admissions committee will appreciate your honest and thoughtful assessment.
Conclusion: Writing a Dartmouth Peer Recommendation That Shines
Writing a Dartmouth peer recommendation is a significant opportunity to help a deserving applicant. By understanding the importance of the recommendation, gathering relevant information, structuring your writing effectively, and highlighting the applicant’s key qualities, you can craft a recommendation that truly stands out. Remember to be authentic, provide specific examples, and focus on the applicant’s potential to thrive at Dartmouth. A well-written recommendation can make a real difference in the admissions process, and your contribution is greatly valued. Good luck!