Is there a Common Application letter of recommendation example?

Hey all, I was wondering if anyone has ever seen or used an example of a Common Application letter of recommendation. I want to give my guidance counselor and teachers an idea of what to write, so any advice or examples would be greatly appreciated!

While I don't have access to any specific examples of a Common Application letter of recommendation, I can give you some insights into what college admissions officers typically look for in a strong letter. Keep in mind that it's important for your recommenders to personalize their letters and write from their own perspective; however, it's perfectly fine to give them some guidance on what aspects to focus on, and requesting that they emphasize certain qualities or experiences.

Here are some key factors that can make a letter of recommendation stand out:

1. Specific anecdotes: Instead of just listing your positive qualities, strong recommenders will share specific examples or anecdotes that showcase your abilities, talents, and personality traits. This helps the admissions committee to understand how you operate in real-world scenarios.

2. Context: Effective letters of recommendation provide context for your achievements – how you've shown resilience or overcome difficult situations can be especially compelling. If your recommender has observed your growth over time, they can also describe your progress and personal development.

3. Tailored writing: While it may not always be possible, recommenders who can customize their letters to your target colleges will make your application more powerful. If they know your academic or personal interests align with a particular institution, they can underline those connections in their letters.

4. Consistency: It's important for recommenders to be consistent in their portrayal of you and your strengths. Providing them with specific examples about extracurriculars, academics, or leadership can help them construct a more cohesive narrative about you. If possible, suggest that your recommenders speak to each other to ensure they're all on the same page about areas of emphasis.

5. The personal touch: Your recommenders should express their genuine enthusiasm for you as an applicant and their confidence in your future success, using a warm and supportive tone. Your personal relationship with your recommenders will shine through in their writing, it's important for them to convey they know you well.

You may find it helpful to provide your recommenders with a short summary of your extracurriculars, accomplishments, and future goals, as well as any experiences or moments that you think might be valuable to mention. This way, they'll have a better understanding of which aspects of your application to address in their letters. However, it's important to remember that the letters should ultimately come from their perspective and should be a genuine representation of their thoughts and opinions about you.