Waiving Right of Access to Recommendation Letters

I'm currently in the process of gathering recommendation letters for my college applications, and I've heard conflicting opinions on whether to waive my right of access. What do you guys think? Should I waive my right of access to these recommendations? Why or why not?

Waiving your right of access to recommendation letters is generally recommended by many counselors and admissions professionals. Here are some reasons why:

1. Credibility: Colleges may place more weight on the letters if they know that the recommender wrote them without the knowledge that the student would read them. This way, the recommender is more likely to provide an honest, candid assessment of your strengths and weaknesses.

2. Trust: By waiving your right, you show your recommender that you trust them to write a strong, positive recommendation on your behalf. This trust can positively influence their perception of you and inform their writing.

3. Privacy: Some recommenders may be more hesitant to share sensitive or personal details about you or their experiences with you if they believe you'll be reading their recommendations. By waiving your right, the recommender may feel more comfortable in addressing these aspects, potentially leading to a more thorough and meaningful letter.

However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

1. If you have any concerns about a recommender's ability to write a strong letter on your behalf, you may feel more comfortable retaining your right of access. This allows you to review the letter and determine if it accurately represents you in the best light possible.

2. Knowing the content of the letters can provide some insight into your strengths and areas for improvement. By not waiving your right, you may gain a deeper understanding of how others perceive you, which could be useful for self-improvement and development.

In general, it's best to have a conversation with your recommender beforehand to discuss your goals, strengths, and the points you'd like them to address in their recommendation. This can alleviate any doubts you have about the content of the letter. Most students choose to waive their right of access, as it generally leads to stronger, more credible letters. Ultimately, the decision is up to you and how comfortable you feel with your recommenders and the recommendations they'll provide.