So I read Caltech’s freshman admissions site page, which said that one teacher recommendation must come from a math/science teacher, and the other must come from a humanities teacher. I’m planning on asking my Introduction to Engineering Design teacher for a recommendation, so I want to email them and ask if that satisfies the math/science teacher requirement. How stupid of a question is this? I can’t find the answer to this anywhere and I don’t want their adcom to remember me as an idiot. I just don’t want to screw up on the small technicalities of my application… Do any of you know the answer to my question, and if not, should I email? Thanks so much
a/ Yes, it counts as a math/science teacher.
b/ just my opinion, but I would think it’s fine to contact them with “stupid questions.” As they say, there is no such thing as a stupid question… The issue I have with applicants emailing admissions is when they think that a ton of emails will show interest, when all it shows is that s/he’s a pain in the butt. Or when the answer is readily available on the website.
I highly doubt that your email inquiry will be put into your application file, but if you’re really concerned, email using a different email address, or call them.
I would not email them.
They clearly state that they are looking for recommendations that span the range of your preparation.
In other words, they are looking for commentary on both your right brain/left brain comprehension.
Show them that you can work this out…
Consider that as a science-tech school, they don’t want all of the rec’s coming from the one arena that most students applying are surely very strong in. They are looking to hear more through your recommendations about your critical thinking and decision-making skills.
Positive comments from your Engineering Design teacher would by implication would fulfill the math component that they’re looking for.
What you may choose to consider for a technical school like Cal Tech, is getting a recommendation from someone in your potential major. If you’re going in as an Engineering major, then you’re pobably spot on. If you’re going to applying for a Math major, they may wonder why your advanced math teacher isn’t doing your rec.