What does 'peer reference' mean?

Hey guys, I came across the term 'peer reference' while researching college applications. Can someone explain what it means and whether or not it's beneficial to have one when applying to colleges? Thanks!

Hey! A peer reference is a recommendation letter written by someone within your age group, usually a classmate or friend, who can vouch for your character, skills, and accomplishments from a different perspective than that of a teacher or counselor. They can provide insight into how you interact with your peers, your leadership qualities, teamwork skills, and your impact on your social circle.

While peer references might not be as common as traditional recommendation letters from teachers and counselors, they can be beneficial in certain situations. For example, some colleges might specifically ask for a peer reference as part of their application process – in which case, you'll definitely need one.

If a college doesn't specifically request a peer reference, it's generally best to prioritize recommendation letters from teachers, counselors, and individuals in leadership positions who know you well and can speak to your academic and extracurricular achievements. However, if you believe a peer reference could add a unique element or perspective to your application that other recommenders might not be able to provide, you can consider submitting one, but make sure to check the college's guidelines on additional submissions.