Hey guys! While filling out application forms, I came across an option: 'I waive my right of access to this recommendation'. Does it make a difference if I waive or not? What do you guys usually do?
This is a great question, and one that many students grapple with during the application process. To answer your question, yes, it does matter whether or not you tick the box. Waiving your right means you won't have access to the recommendation letters submitted on your behalf. This grants your recommender the freedom to provide an honest and unbiased evaluation of your abilities, free from any potential influence.
To put it into a bit of context, if universities see that you've not waived your right, they may question whether the recommender was completely open in their evaluation. It's almost like having a private conversation: if you know the person you're discussing is going to hear everything you say, you may hold back some of your honesty out of fear of offending them.
Therefore, it is widely suggested to waive your right of access to ensure the credibility and authenticity of your letters of recommendation. However, the decision still lies in your hands; make a choice with which you feel most comfortable.
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