Is being shy bad? Especially in a Rec Letter?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Princeton University
1

<p>I'm a senior this year and I've been asking my teachers for rec letters. Recently, one of them let me read his letter and I just wanted to know what you all would think of this: </p>

<p>Basically, everything in the letter was very good, positive, and written well about the context in which he knew me as well as my activities outside of school. However, in one part, he mentioned that I was not as talkative and shy in class discussions, though I have been improving in that area since then (which was true, since I was in his class as an underclassman and now I've become more outgoing). Is this bad? He also told me that we could work together to revise the letter, but would this be a concern I should bring up? I'm slightly worried that this will reflect badly, or is shyness not really something that serious? Again, I've improved since then, though just not in his class for him to see. Since I'm applying to these top schools, I feel like I need to present myself as more sociable and outgoing than this may seem to suggest. </p>

<p>Don't get me wrong, it was a very nice letter and recommended me well, but is this something I should stress over? </p>

<p>Thank you for any suggestions.</p>

2

<p>This is why I’m glad that my teachers didn’t let me read my rec letters. I say just leave it as it is. Your teacher was being their most honest writing the first draft and thus that draft will come across as being the most honest. I don’t think you need to worry about your teacher mentioning one flaw; I think it makes you seem like more of a real person to the adcoms. Also the fact that you improved is a big deal and probably looks better than if you were described as perfect.</p>

3

<p>No one is perfect. I wouldn’t worry about it so much. It is not like everyone who gets accepted has to be the most social thing ever. Besides if this is really a problem that you have under control, maybe it could be a good subject fro your college essay.</p>

4

<p>Ok, thank you guys :slight_smile: I have already decided what I will do so thanks for the help.</p>

5

<p>Make sure that you stress you’re improving though.</p>