<p>On your secondary report, what if you guidance counselor bubbles “outstanding” instead of “best in career”? How much would that hurt your chances at Harvard? I go to a large public school and I don’t know my GC that well, and I’m scared that she might bubbled outstanding instead of “enthusiastic/top few” on the common app secondary report.</p>
<p>I don’t know the answer to your question, <em>but</em> just because you go to a large public school is no reason you can’t know your GC. Make the effort, because most won’t.</p>
<p>Yes, I can make an effort - I’ve always been talented in putting on a mask of deception. However, there’s only one problem: my counselor has been out all year due to her pregnancy, and she won’t be back until next Fall, when I will be applying to Harvard EA. Unless I can find out what hospital in California she’s located in, I won’t be able to be “knowing her” anytime soon (nor will anyone with last names starting from A-L). </p>
<p>Argh. I am starting to think that if my guidance counselor bubbles “oustanding” instead of “best in career”, my chances at Harvard will be decimated.</p>
<p>I don’t think which bubble is filled in is that significant. I think it is more significant that you may not have your GC writing a strong letter for you. You can build a relationship with the substitute, or the head of the guidance department, or some assistant principal. Be active. You are letting events happen to you instead of taking control.</p>
<p>You shouldn’t have to put on a mask of deception. Tell them what your hopes and dreams are. Ask their advice. Listen to what they have to say. Share some of your experiences, or discuss current events and what you think about them. Thank them for their time. Repeat.</p>
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<p>Mordred, is this meant to be a joke? </p>
<p>Love CC :o.</p>
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I agree. Your application’s in the reject pile already buster. Much sympathy.</p>
<p>Wow. Seriously, are you working on both cylinders?</p>
<p>LOL! First of all, this question is hilarious. Honestly, it isn’t going to make a difference. What <em>will</em> make a difference is the details she includes in her letter, if any, the awards you have won, and your transcript + SATs + GPA. Seriously. </p>
<p>P.S. if you know any other admin at your school better (ie, principal or vice-p), get them to fill out the recommendation. Schools will think you must really stand out if the principal writes you a fabulous letter.</p>
<p>Is that true about the letter from the principal? Mine wrote me a rec for the waitlist after my guidance counselor suggested it…</p>
<p>No, this isn’t a joke. I just have extreme paranoia. Really extreme.</p>
<p>hahaha don’t worry mordred I vaguely thought about this one day</p>