<p>Hey. I'm having a difficult time deciding whether to apply online or via mail. I want to attach a resume to my application, and I cannot do this through the commonapp website. Also, the box to type in the essays doesn't support italics, underlining, or tabs.</p>
<p>I think that I want to apply via mail, but the website "strongly urges" applicants to apply online, so I am perplexed over what to do. If I do apply online, should I just send a copy of my resume in a separate envelope?</p>
<p>Secondly, for those who sent/intend to send supplementary recommendations, what type of form are you going to give the recommender? Should I just tell him to identify himself in the letter?</p>
<p>And lastly, in regards to my resume, several of my activities are not traditional and need quite substantial explanations. I am uneasy about writing paragraphs (~130 words each) for three of my activities, but I see no way around it. Any advice that you could offer me would be much appreciated.</p>
<p>I believe there have been numerous threads on CC discussing whether to apply by mail or online. Personally, I am applying by mail because there is a little bit more freedom of expression (in essays, ecs, etc). Regarding your resume, I believe that is generally frowned upon to send one unless you have unusual activities or hooks. Otherwise, I would suggest not sending one. Since this doesn't answer your question, I would strongly suggest not writing a paragraph explain your odd ecs. Which raises the question, what are they and why are they so unusual. I hope that they are not fundraising or special volunteering positions because these tend to be self explanatory with few words. Hope I answered your questions.</p>
<p>My daughter (accepted) applied online and followed up with mailed resume/activity sheet. If admissions office strongly recommends applying online for their convenience, I would suggest following that recommendation. Send additional materials by mail. If you are certain that your activities require explanation (they probably don't), be as brief as possible. I believe the common app allows you to discuss a couple of activities of particular significance to you, doesn't it? Use that opportunity to describe these obscure activities.</p>