<p>Hello, I have been a longtime reader, but this is my first post. I did not get into UCLA or Berkeley, but I am determined to send in an appeal. One of the things they have on Cal’s basis of appeal is unique family situation, so I feel like I should talk about that. Two questions:</p>
<li><p>What are they looking for in an appeal letter from the student?</p></li>
<li><p>What sort of content is needed in Letters of Rec? Is there anything specifically different, or pretty much the same</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Can I appeal my admission decision?
We strongly discourage letters of appeal unless you can provide significant new information for us to consider. Our freshman selection process involves a careful, individual reading of each application and it is very unlikely that we will choose to reverse our original decision. If you do have significant new information to present and decide to appeal our admissions decision, please submit your request in writing, postmarked by April 15, 2009. Include your UC application ID number in your letter and submit it with all accompanying materials (i.e. seventh semester grades or a letter of recommendation) in a single envelope. We do not accept appeals by telephone, fax or email. Log onto myBerkeleyApplication for your appeal decision. Decisions on appeals may not be issued until after May 1. Advise us of any change in your email address in case we need to contact you during the appeal process. Even if you choose to appeal, we recommend that you do not delay accepting an admission offer from another college or university.</p>
<p>I did read that, however it does not seem to distinguish the letters of rec. Should it be a regular letter (which is what I think it is asking), or one that is more in asking to reconsider the applicant that the letter is for?</p>