<p>Is this something that is done in the essay? </p>
<p>In short, yes, it is where you give your application “voice”. Everything else is a laundry list. That’s all some schools need, they’ll plug in the laundry list, apply the secret formula, and decide if you get in. Most state schools follow this method, but the “holistic” method tends to be used by the more elite schools, both public and private.</p>
<p>The essays and personal statement are important but also make sure your recommendations emphasize the trait that you are trying to convey. Give your teachers who will be writing your recommendations a one page document that lists the college(s) that you will be applying to, what you intend to study and a list of your accomplishments/activities in high school. Tell the teachers that it would be helpful if they could comment on your [insert personal trait here]. This will enable them to write a more personalized recommendation for you. Your teacher will appreciate the guidance. .</p>
<p>The elite schools often have check-off questionnaires for counselors and teachers which rate your personal characteristics. The teacher or GC rates you on a 1-5 scale for things like: honesty, empathy to others, sense of humor. The list is quite comprehnsive and is worth downloading to understand what adcoms are looking for.</p>
<p>do you have a link or pdf ?</p>